Methods, systems, and computer program products for allocating different quality of service/bandwidth allocation to subscribers having different levels of subscription service for interactive gaming

ABSTRACT

Quality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation can be provided for interactive gaming via a Regional/Access Network (RAN). The RAN can provide end-to-end transport between a Gaming Application Service Provider (GASP) and a Customer Premises Network (CPN) that includes a Routing Gateway (RG). Quality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation can be provided by determining different levels of subscription service for different subscribers to an interactive game between a plurality of participants. Different QoS and/or bandwidth allocations can be provided to different gaming traffic flows associated with the different subscribers to the interactive game based on the different levels of subscription service of the different subscribers.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/740,715, filed Dec. 19, 2003. This application also claims thebenefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/470,650, filed May 15, 2003, the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated herein by reference as if set forth in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to communication networks, and, moreparticularly, to managing Quality of Service (QoS) in communicationnetworks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The Internet is a decentralized network of computers that cancommunicate with one another via the internet protocol (IP). Althoughthe Internet has its origins in a network created by the AdvancedResearch Project Agency (ARPA) in the 1960's, it has only recentlybecome a worldwide communication medium. To a large extent, theexplosive growth in use and traffic over the Internet is due to thedevelopment in the early 1990's of the worldwide Web (WWW), which is oneof several service facilities provided on the Internet. Other facilitiesinclude a variety of communication services such as electronic mail,telnet, usenet newsgroups, internet relay chat (IRC), a variety ofinformation search services such as WAIS and Archie, and a variety ofinformation retrieval services such as FTP (file transfer protocol) andGopher.

The WWW is a client-server based facility that includes a number ofservers (computers connected to the Internet) on which Web pages orfiles reside, as well as clients (Web browsers), which interface theusers with the Web pages. Specifically, Web browsers and softwareapplications send a request over the WWW to a server requesting a Webpage identified by a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) which notes both theserver where the Web page resides and the file or files on that serverwhich make up the Web page. The server then sends a copy of therequested file(s) to the Web browser, which in turn displays the Webpage to the user.

The topology of the WWW can be described as a network of networks, withproviders of network service called Network Service Providers, or NSPs.Servers that provide application-layer services as previously describedmay be described as Application Service Providers (ASPs). Sometimes asingle service provider does both functions within a single business

In recent years, broadband access technologies, such as digitalsubscriber line (DSL), cable modems, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM),and frame relay have facilitated the communication of voice, video, anddata over the Internet and other public and private networks. Becausebroadband technologies are typically deployed by a single transportservice provider, like a Regional Bell Operating Company (RBOC), theirRegional and Access Networks (RAN) are often shared by many NSPs andASPs offering services that range from Internet access and VPN access toVoice over IP, Video on Demand, and Gaming. Up until recently, a givenCustomer Premises Network (CPN) would have been connected to a singleservice provider in a generic way, however a new standard for RANservice (DSL Forum TR-059) provides a RAN architecture that allowssimultaneous access to multiple NSPs and ASPs and for differentiatingthe data transport service provided by a RAN to these service providers.

Moreover, broadband access technology has allowed service providers toexpand their content and service offerings to both business and homeusers. For example, a user may subscribe to multiple services orapplications, such as voice service, Internet access service, a videoservice, a gaming service, etc. from one or more service providers.These services and/or applications may be delivered over a singlenetwork connection, such as a DSL line. Unfortunately, with multiple newconnectivity options and applications that require specificcharacteristics from the network, there is also a need to establishpriorities and bandwidth allocation among multiple services and/orapplications so as to customize the content delivery according to theusers' and/or providers' preferences.

SUMMARY

Embodiments according to the invention can provide Quality of Service(QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation for interactive gaming via aRegional/Access Network (RAN). The RAN can provide end-to-end transportbetween a Gaming Application Service Provider (GASP) and a CustomerPremises Network (CPN) that includes a Routing Gateway (RG). Pursuant tothese embodiments, Quality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidth allocationcan be provided by determining different levels of subscription servicefor different subscribers to an interactive game between a plurality ofparticipants. Different QoS and/or bandwidth allocations can be providedto different gaming traffic flows associated with the differentsubscribers to the interactive game based on the different levels ofsubscription service of the different subscribers.

In some embodiments according to the invention, different QoS and/orbandwidth allocations can be provided by receiving an inquiry, at theRAN from the GASP, for the QoS and/or bandwidth allocation available toa subscriber to the interactive game responsive to a level of thesubscription service to the interactive game by the subscriber. Aprofile is can be provided including an allocated QoS and/or bandwidthallocation for the subscriber based on the received inquiry.

In some embodiments according to the invention, the interactive gamesupports a number of participants in a range between about 10 and about1000 participants. In some embodiments according to the invention, theprofile can be provided by providing a first allocated QoS and/orbandwidth allocation for the subscriber based on a first type ofinformation transmitted during the interactive game.

In some embodiments according to the invention, a second allocated QoSand/or bandwidth allocation can be provided for the subscriber based ona second type of information transmitted during the interactive game. Insome embodiments according to the invention, the first type ofinformation can be interactive game play information and the second typeof information can be auxiliary type information such as registrationinformation, e-mail information, chat information, and browsinginformation or the like.

In some embodiments according to the invention, the inquiry for the QoSand/or bandwidth allocation can be received, at the RAN from the GASP,by receiving a first inquiry for a QoS and/or bandwidth allocationavailable to a first subscriber to the interactive game responsive to afirst level of subscription service by the first subscriber and whereinthe allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation comprises a firstallocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation. A second inquiry can bereceived, at the RAN from the GASP, for a QoS and/or bandwidthallocation available to a second subscriber to the interactive gameresponsive to a second level of subscription service by the secondsubscriber. A second profile can be provided, from the RAN to the GASP,including a second allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesecond subscriber based on the received second inquiry.

In some embodiments according to the invention, the first allocated QoSand/or bandwidth allocation is greater than the second allocated QoSand/or bandwidth allocation. In some embodiments according to theinvention, the allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber can be changed responsive to a change in the level ofsubscription service of the subscriber.

In some embodiments according to the invention, the profile can beprovided by allocating at least one assured forwarding queue to thesubscriber to the interactive game. In some embodiments according to theinvention, the profile can be provided by allocating at least oneassured forwarding queue to the subscriber to the interactive game forprocessing of interactive game play information and allocating at leastone best effort queue to the subscriber for processing of auxiliaryinformation.

In some embodiments according to the invention, the profile can beprovided to a routing gateway associated with subscriber. In someembodiments according to the invention, game play information can beprovided to/from the GASP limited by the allocated QoS and/or bandwidthallocation. In some embodiments according to the invention, a port canbe established through which the interactive game can communicates withthe subscriber, wherein the port is associated with the subscriberprofile.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features of the present invention will be more readily understoodfrom the following detailed description of specific embodiments thereofwhen read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram that illustrates a conventional digitalsubscriber line (DSL) network;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates communication between endusers and an application service provider (ASP) and a network serviceprovider (NSP) via a regional/access network;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram that illustrates the regional/access network;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram that illustrates a broadband remote accessserver (BRAS) and a routing gateway (RG) in a network;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram that illustrates access session types in thenetwork of FIG. 4 in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram that illustrates traffic classification andqueuing treatments in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 illustrates business model options for using bandwidth on acommunication medium in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram that illustrates relationships between asubscriber, the RG, the regional/access network, an ASP, and an NSP;

FIGS. 9-12 are block diagrams that illustrates a data architecture(model) for managing quality of service (QoS) in a network in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram that illustrates an application frameworkinfrastructure for managing QoS in a network in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a messaging flow for a service providerauthentication scenario using the application framework infrastructureof FIG. 13 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates a messaging flow for an application level bandwidthand QoS query scenario using the application framework infrastructure ofFIG. 13 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a messaging flow for an application level bandwidthand QoS modification scenario using the application frameworkinfrastructure of FIG. 13 in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates a messaging flow for an application flow controlrecord creation scenario using the application framework infrastructureof FIG. 13 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 18 illustrates a messaging flow for an application flow controlrecord deletion scenario using the application framework infrastructureof FIG. 13 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates a messaging flow for a NSP Point-to-Point Protocol(PPP) session level bandwidth and QoS modification scenario using theapplication framework infrastructure of FIG. 13 in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates a messaging flow for a ASP/NSP PPP session levelbandwidth and QoS query scenario using the application frameworkinfrastructure of FIG. 13 in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 21 is a block diagram that illustrates a turbo button architectureusing the application framework infrastructure of FIG. 13 in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is an event diagram that illustrates operations of the turbobutton architecture of FIG. 21 in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 23 is a block diagram that illustrates a video conferencingarchitecture using the application framework infrastructure of FIG. 13in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 24 and 25 are event diagrams that illustrate operations of thevideo conferencing architecture of FIG. 23 in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a block diagram that illustrates traffic classification andqueuing treatments for the video conferencing service in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a block diagram that illustrates operations of a videoconferencing architecture in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 28 is a diagram that illustrates network topologies for supportinggaming applications in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 29 is a block diagram that illustrates a gaming architecture usingthe application framework infrastructure of FIG. 13 in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a block diagram that illustrates traffic classification andqueuing treatments for the gaming service in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is an event diagram that illustrates operations of the gamingarchitecture of FIG. 29 in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention; and

FIGS. 32-33A and B are flowcharts that illustrate allocation of gamingflow resources to different subscribers based on different levels ofsubscription service associated therewith according to embodiments ofthe invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way ofexample in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. Itshould be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit theinvention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, theinvention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternativesfalling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by theclaims. Like reference numbers signify like elements throughout thedescription of the figures.

The present invention may be embodied as systems, methods, and/orcomputer program products. Accordingly, the present invention may beembodied in hardware and/or in software (including firmware, residentsoftware, micro-code, etc.). Furthermore, the present invention may takethe form of a computer program product on a computer-usable orcomputer-readable storage medium having computer-usable orcomputer-readable program code embodied in the medium for use by or inconnection with an instruction execution system. In the context of thisdocument, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be anymedium that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport theprogram for use by or in connection with the instruction executionsystem, apparatus, or device.

The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example butnot limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagationmedium. More specific examples (a nonexhaustive list) of thecomputer-readable medium would include the following: an electricalconnection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, arandom access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasableprogrammable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber,and a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). Note that thecomputer-usable or computer-readable medium could even be paper oranother suitable medium upon which the program is printed, as theprogram can be electronically captured, via, for instance, opticalscanning of the paper or other medium, then compiled, interpreted, orotherwise processed in a suitable manner, if necessary, and then storedin a computer memory.

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in the contextof digital subscriber line (DSL) technology for purposes ofillustration. It will be understood that the present invention is notlimited to DSL technology. Indeed, other communication technologiesand/or network configurations, such as, but not limited to, asynchronoustransfer mode (ATM), frame relay, hybrid fiber coax (HFC), wirelessbroadband, and/or Ethernet may also be used in other embodiments of thepresent invention. In general, the present invention is not limited toany communication technology and/or network configuration, but isintended to encompass any technology and/or network configurationcapable of carrying out operations described herein. Embodiments of thepresent invention are also described herein in the context of managingquality of service (QoS). As used herein, QoS includes, but is notlimited to, treatment applied to an access session, application flow,and/or packet with respect to scheduling a resource, bandwidthallocation, and/or delivery target in an individual element or across anend-to-end system.

As used herein, the term “protocol” refers to a defined set of rulesthat govern the exchange of data or information between two or moreentities. In addition, a “protocol layer” refers to the hierarchicalprotocol structure represented by the open systems interconnection (OSI)model developed by the International Organization for Standardization inwhich layer one corresponds to the physical layer, layer two correspondsto the data link layer, layer three corresponds to the network layer,layer four corresponds to the transport layer, layer five corresponds tothe session layer, layer six corresponds to the presentation layer, andlayer seven corresponds to the application layer.

The detailed description of embodiments of the present invention isorganized as follows:

1. Overview 2. Introduction

2.1 Purpose and Scope

2.2 Key Terms

3. Review of TR-059 Concepts

3.1 Network Service Provider Network

-   -   3.1.1 Description

3.2 Application Service Provider Network

-   -   3.2.1 Description    -   3.2.2 Capabilities

3.3 Regional Access Network

-   -   3.3.1 Broadband Remote Access Server    -   3.3.2 Access Network    -   3.3.3 Access Node

3.4 Evolution of the DSL Network

-   -   3.4.1 Access Session Types

4. QOS Capabilities of the Application Framework

4.1 General Approach

4.2 Classification

4.3 Business Models for Supporting Concurrent NSP and ASP AccessSessions

-   -   4.3.1 Simple Bandwidth Partitioning    -   4.3.2 Priority and Dynamic Bandwidth Sharing

4.4 Considerations Associated with this Approach

-   -   4.4.1 Static Classifiers    -   4.4.2 Queue Structure

5. Reference Data Model

5.1 Subscriber Maintained Data

5.2 Routing Gateway

5.3 Regional/Access Network

5.4 Application Service Provider

5.5 Network Service Provider

6. Reference Interface Specification and Detailed Message Flow

6.1 Interface Between RG and Regional/Access Network

6.2 Interface Between Regional/Access Network and ASP

6.3 Interface Between Regional/Access Network and NSP

6.4 Application Framework Infrastructure

-   -   6.4.1 Framework Infrastructure Element Functional Description    -   6.4.2 DSL Service Messaging Flow

7. Future Capabilities of the Application Framework 8. Example UseScenario—Turbo Button 9. Example Use Scenario—Video Conferencing 10.Example Use Scenario—Gaming

11. Allocation of different quality of service/bandwidth to subscribershaving different levels of subscription service to interactive gaming.

1. OVERVIEW

This document defines a common application framework built on top of theDSL Forum TR-059 reference architecture that can be used in a common wayto enable service providers to leverage bandwidth and QoS capabilitiesin the Regional/Access Network. This framework comprises an interfacespecification and associated data model and mechanisms to control theQoS and bandwidth capabilities defined in TR-059. A common interface forApplication Service Providers (ASPs) and Network Service Providers(NSPs) to leverage may reduce development costs and time to market. Thisinterface defines a mechanism for applications to request IP QoS andbandwidth from the DSL Regional/Access network.

2. INTRODUCTION

2.1 Purpose and Scope

Recent work in the DSL Forum has documented a reference architecture,DSL Evolution-Architecture Requirements for the Support of QoS-EnabledIP Services (TR-059), with the purpose of defining a common way ofsupporting enhanced IP applications by enabling IP QoS and bandwidthmanagement capabilities. TR-059 defines a common deploymentarchitecture, set of interface specifications, and fundamental networkelement requirements. The architecture and requirements are largely“transport or network” layer focused. It may be useful to complementthis work by defining a common higher-layer framework that leverages thecapabilities of TR-059 and that can be used by application serviceproviders (ASP) as they develop and deploy applications.

This document defines a common application framework built on top of theTR-059 reference architecture that can be used in a common way to enableservice providers to leverage bandwidth and QoS capabilities in theRegional/Access Network. This framework comprises an interfacespecification and associated data model and mechanisms to control theQoS and bandwidth capabilities defined in TR-059. A common interface forASPs and NSPs to leverage may reduce development costs and time tomarket. This interface defines a mechanism for applications to requestIP QoS and bandwidth from the DSL Regional/Access network.

Specifically, the application framework is based on the capabilitiesdefined in phase 2 of TR-059. Therefore, the framework defined hereassumes that the capabilities of the access node in the Regional/Accessnetwork will remain largely unchanged, but does leverage a policyapproach for provisioning the BRAS and Routing Gateway (RG) to manage IPflows appropriately. As real-time signaling capabilities becomeavailable this framework may be modified to support these capabilities.In defining the framework and providing details of its use, thisdocument also intends to demonstrate that capabilities defined (here andin TR-059) are sufficient to support a reasonable set of applications.

Services that span Regional/Access networks and requireinter-Regional/Access network communication are generally not describedherein as part of this framework. Support of these services is possibleif handled at the application layer where an ASP communicates to eachRegional/Access network to establish bandwidth and QoS for a service.

2.2 Key Terms

The following definitions apply for the purposes of this document:

Access Network The Access Network encompasses the elements of the DSLnetwork from the NID at the customer premises to the BRAS. This networktypically includes one or more Access Node type and often an ATMswitching function to aggregate them. Access Node The Access Nodecontains the ATU-C, which terminates the DSL signal, and physically canbe a DSLAM, Next Generation DLC (NG-DLC), or a Remote Access Multiplexer(RAM). A DSLAM hub can be used in a central office to aggregate trafficfrom multiple remote physical devices, and is considered logically to bea part of the Access Node. When the term “DSLAM” is used in thisdocument, it is intended to very specifically refer to a DSLAM, and notthe more generic Access Node. The Access Node provides aggregationcapabilities between the Access Network and the Regional Network. It isthe first point in the network where traffic on multiple DSL lines willbe aggregated onto a single network. Application Flow The set of packetsassociated with a particular application (e.g., video conferencingsession, VoIP call, etc.). Application A common reference data model andinterface Framework specification built on top of the TR-059 referencearchitecture that can be used in a common way to enable serviceproviders to leverage bandwidth and QoS capabilities in theRegional/Access Network. Auto Configuration A data repository thatallows the Regional/Access Server (ACS) network to provide configurationinformation to Routing Gateways (RG) in Customer Premises Broadband TheBRAS is the aggregation point Remote Access for the subscriber traffic.It provides aggregation Server (BRAS) capabilities (e.g., IP, PPP, ATM)between the Regional/Access Network and the NSP or ASP. Beyondaggregation, it is also the injection point for policy management and IPQoS in the Regional/Access Networks. Core Network The center core of theRegional Network. The functions contained herein are primarily transportoriented with associated switching or routing capabilities enabling theproper distribution of the data traffic. Downstream The direction oftransmission from the ATU-C (Access Node) to the ATU-R (modem). EdgeNetwork The edge of the Regional Network. The Edge Network providesaccess to various layer 2 services and connects to the Regional Networkcore enabling the distribution of the data traffic between various edgedevices. Loop A metallic pair of wires running from the customer'spremises to the Access Node. Many-to-Many The ability for multipleindividual users or Access Sessions subscribers, within a singlepremises, to simultaneously connect to multiple NSPs and ASPs. RegionalNetwork The Regional Network interconnects the Network ServiceProvider's network and the Access Network. A Regional Network for DSLconnects to the BRAS, which is technically both in the Regional Networkand in an Access Network. Typically, more than one Access Network isconnected to a common Regional Network. The function of the RegionalNetwork in this document goes beyond traditional transport, and mayinclude aggregation, routing, and switching. Regional/Access TheRegional and Access Networks - grouped as Network and end-to-end QoSdomain and often managed by a single provider. The follow functionalelements are contained in this network: Access Node, BRAS, and the ACS.Routing Gateway A customer premises functional element that provides IProuting and QoS capabilities. It may be integrated with or be separatefrom the ATU-R. Rate Limit A means to limit the throughput of aparticular PPP session or application flow by either buffering (shaping)or dropping (policing) packets above a specified maximum data rate. Theterm bandwidth is used interchangeably with the concept of ratelimiting. The bandwidth allocated to a PPP session or application isdetermined by the rate limit applied. Session Session is typically anoverloaded term. In this document it is intended to reference a PPPaccess session rather than a particular application flow. SubscriberUsed to refer to the person that is billed for a service, like NSPaccess service or ASP services. The subscriber is considered the primaryuser of the service (see the definition of “user” below) and is the mainaccount contact. The subscriber to an NSP access is referred to as aNetwork Subscriber and the subscriber to an application is referred toas an Application Subscriber. Upstream The direction of transmissionfrom the ATU-R (modem) to the ATU-C (Access Node). User The person orentity that receives the benefit of a given service. The user may or maynot be the subscriber of the service. A subscribed service has one ormore users associated with the subscriber.

3. REVIEW OF TR-059 CONCEPTS

To provide a common reference for the application framework, anarchitectural view of the DSL network is provided. The text in thissection is taken from TR-059 and provides a high level overview. For amore complete description refer to TR-059. FIG. 1 illustrates thecurrent state of deployed DSL networks. Boxes in the figures representfunctional entities—networks and logical components rather than physicalelements.

This traditional architecture is centered on providing service to a lineor a loop. It is desired, however, to be able to provide services thatare user-specific. Additionally, more than one subscriber can be presentat the same premises and share a single loop. TR-059 describes aslightly more complex situation, and hides the common complexity sharedwith FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 illustrates the components of a DSL access-based broadbandnetwork. FIG. 2 indicates ownership of the components by differentproviding organizations. Boxes in the figures represent functionalentities—networks and logical components rather than physical elements.

This model illustrates an architecture that provides services that areuser-specific, i.e., more than one subscriber can be present at the samepremises and share a single loop. Note that FIG. 2 shows many-to-manyaccess through a common Regional/Access network. It is used tosimultaneously provide an Application Service, between an ASP Network₁and User₁ at the same time and over the same U interface as it supportsa Network Service₂ between NSP Network₂ and User₂.

3.1 Network Service Provider Network

3.1.1 Description

The Network Service Provider (NSP) is defined as a Service Provider thatrequires extending a Service Provider-specific Internet Protocol (IP)address. This is the typical application of DSL service today. The NSPowns and procures addresses that they, in turn, allocate individually orin blocks to their subscribers. The subscribers are typically located inCustomer Premises Networks (CPNs). The NSP service may besubscriber-specific, or communal when an address is shared using NetworkAddress Port Translation (NAPT) throughout a CPN. This relationshipamong the NSP, A10-NSP interface, and Regional/Access Network is shownin FIG. 2. NSPs typically provide access to the Internet, but may alsoprovide access to a walled garden, VPN, or some other closed group orcontrolled access network. L2TP and IP VPNs are typical A10-NSPinterface arrangements.

The capabilities of the NSP may include, but are not limited to, forexample: authenticating network access between the CPN and the NSPnetwork; assignment of network addresses and IP filters; assignment oftraffic engineering parameters; and/or customer service andtroubleshooting of network access problems

3.2 Application Service Provider Network

3.2.1 Description

The Application Service Provider (ASP) is defined as a Service Providerthat uses a common network infrastructure provided by theRegional/Access Network and an IP address assigned and managed by theRegional Network Provider. This is a new type of DSL service. TheRegional Network Provider owns and procures addresses that they, inturn, allocate to the subscribers. ASPs then use this commoninfrastructure to provide application or network services to thosesubscribers. For example, an ASP may offer gaming, Video on Demand, oraccess to VPNs via IPsec or some other IP-tunneling method. The ASPservice may be subscriber-specific, or communal when an address isshared using NAPT throughout a Customer Premises Network (CPN). It isenvisioned that the ASP environment will have user-level rather thannetwork-access-level identification, and that a common LightweightDirectory Access Protocol (LDAP) directory will assist in providing useridentification and preferences. Logical elements used by ASPs typicallyinclude routers, application servers, and directory servers. Therelationship between the ASP Network, the A10-ASP interface, and theRegional Network is shown in FIG. 2.

3.2.2 Capabilities

The capabilities of the ASP may include, but are not limited to, forexample: authenticating users at the CPN; assignment of QoS to servicetraffic; customer service and troubleshooting of network access andapplication-specific problems; and/or ability to determine traffic usagefor accounting purposes and billing.

3.3 Regional Access Network

The Regional/Access Network comprises the Regional Network, BroadbandRemote Access Server, and the Access Network as shown in FIG. 3. Itsprimary function is to provide end-to-end data transport between thecustomer premises and the NSP or ASP. The Regional/Access Network mayalso provide higher layer functions, such as QoS and contentdistribution. QoS may be provided by tightly couplingtraffic-engineering capabilities of the Regional Network with thecapabilities of the BRAS.

3.3.1 Broadband Remote Access Server

The BRAS performs multiple functions in the network. Its most basicfunction is to provide aggregation capabilities between theRegional/Access Network and the NSP/ASP. For aggregating traffic, theBRAS serves as a L2TP Access Concentrator (LAC), tunneling multiplesubscriber Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) sessions directly to an NSP orswitched through a L2TS. It also performs aggregation for terminated PPPsessions or routed IP session by placing them into IP VPNs. The BRASalso supports ATM termination and aggregation functions.

Beyond aggregation, the BRAS is also the injection point for providingpolicy management and IP QoS in the Regional and Access Networks. TheBRAS supports the concept of many-to-many access sessions. Policyinformation can be applied to terminated and non-terminated sessions.For example, a bandwidth policy may be applied to a subscriber whosePoint-to-Point (PPP) session is aggregated into an L2TP tunnel and isnot terminated by the BRAS. Sessions that terminate on (or are routedthrough) the BRAS, however, can receive per flow treatment because theBRAS has IP level awareness of the session. In this model, both theaggregate bandwidth for a customer as well as the bandwidth andtreatment of traffic per-application can be controlled.

3.3.2 Access Network

The Access Network refers to the network between the ATU-R and the BRASincluding the access node and any intervening ATM switches.

3.3.3 Access Node

The Access Node provides aggregation capabilities between the AccessNetwork and the Regional Network. It is the first point in the networkwhere traffic on multiple DSL lines will be aggregated onto a singlenetwork. Traditionally the Access Node has been primarily an ATMconcentrator, mapping PVCs from the ATU-R to PVCs in the ATM core. Ithas also shaped and policed traffic to the service access rates.

As described in TR-059, the responsibility of policing ATU-R to ATU-CPVCs to the subscribed line rate is moved from the Access Node to theBRAS to establish additional bandwidth on the DSL line for additionalservices. The Access Node sets the line rate for each PVC at the synchrate (or slightly less) of the ATU-R and ATU-C. This will make themaximum amount of subscriber bandwidth available for services. The BRASpolices individual sessions/flows as required to their required ratesand also performs the dynamic changes when bandwidth-on-demand servicesare applied.

3.4 Evolution of the DSL Network

Phases 1 and 2 of TR-059 introduce the capability to change theRegional/Access network from an IP unaware layer 2 network to a networkthat leverages IP awareness in key elements to enable IP QoS and moreefficient and effective use of bandwidth. These key IP aware elementsare the BRAS and the RG as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 represents a paradigm shift in that the BRAS and the RG are nowresponsible for managing the traffic flow through the network. Byenabling these devices to accept policy rules at subscriber session andapplication levels, IP flows can be managed in a more flexible and“dynamic” manner than previously possible. The BRAS is responsible formanaging IP traffic in the downstream direction such that traffic isscheduled according to priority and in a way that ensures thatcongestion in the downstream network is reduced (i.e., hierarchicalscheduling). The RG similarly, manages the scheduling of traffic in theupstream direction based on the priority of the session and/orapplication. Given that the RG cannot be trusted, the BRAS performs apolicing function to ensure the upstream bandwidth in the access networkis utilized appropriately. Note that the priority and bandwidth policiescan be applied at the PPP session and or application levels; therefore,there is flexibility in how traffic is treated in the network.

3.4.1 Access Session Types

The architecture also evolves the types and number of access sessions(specifically PPP sessions) that a subscriber would typically establishto a service provider. Where previously there had been just one accesssession to an ISP, there are now multiple access sessions with threebasic types:

Community NSP—Shown in FIG. 5 as the solid line between the RG and NSP₁,this type of access session is established between an RG and an NSP. Itis called the Community NSP connection because all the devices withinthe Customer Premises Network share the connection to the NSP using theNetwork Port Address Translation (NPAT) feature of the RG. Because theCommunity NSP connection is given the Default Route at the RG there cantypically be only one. This connection is typically set up to an ISP toprovide Internet access to all the devices in the Customer PremisesNetwork. This PPP session may terminate on the BRAS or may pass throughthe BRAS in tact and be placed into a L2TP tunnel to the NSP.

Personal NSP—Shown in FIG. 5 as the dashed line between User₁ and NSP₂,this type of access session is established between a device within theCustomer Premises Network and an NSP. It passes through the RG at theEthernet (PPPoE) level. It is called the Personal NSP connection becauseonly the device within the Customer Premises Network from which theconnection was established can access the NSP. This connection may avoidusing the NPAT feature of the RG. This connection is typically set up toan ISP or a corporation to provide private or personalized access, orany access that cannot traverse the NPAT sharing mechanism at the RG.This PPP session may terminate on the BRAS or may pass through the BRASin tact and be placed into a L2TP tunnel to the NSP.

ASP—Shown in FIG. 5 as the dotted line between the RG and ASP₁, thistype of access session is established between an RG and the ASP network.It is typically a single connection that is shared by all the ASPs.Because the Community NSP connection is typically given the DefaultRoute at the RG, the ASP connection must provide the RG with a list ofroutes to the ASP network. Also because there is not a default route tothe ASP network, it may not be possible to provide typical Internetaccess through the ASP connection. This connection is typically set upto the ASP network to provide application-specific and QoS-enabledaccess among all the applications in the ASP network and all the devicesin the Customer Premises Network. This PPP session type may terminate onthe BRAS so that per application flow treatment can be applied.

4. QOS CAPABILITIES OF THE APPLICATION FRAMEWORK

4.1 General Approach

TR-059 describes a hierarchical scheduling approach leveraged by theBRAS to manage the downstream links between the BRAS and the RG.Similarly, it describes how the BRAS leverages policing techniques(including a random discard enhancement) to apply backpressure to theupstream source to minimize potential congestion in that direction. Theapplication framework provides a mechanism for service providers tomodify bandwidth and QoS. In particular embodiments of the presentinvention, to simplify the number of queues to be managed in the BRASand RG, this framework assumes that only the ASP session has the abilityto support per application flow treatment. In such embodiments, NSPaccess sessions can only be managed in terms of the aggregate bandwidthand priority with respect to other access sessions on the DSL line.Because many ASPs share the ASP access session, the bandwidth andpriority of the session is set by the Regional/Access provider andtypically cannot be modified by an ASP. The ASP can however modify thecharacteristics of specific applications within the ASP PPP session byassigning the application to a particular queue and treatment type. TheBRAS and RG may schedule or police packets based on one or more of thefollowing parameters: the priority of the access session; the currentpacket's relation to the rate limit of the access session; the priorityof the application within the access session (only supported for the ASPPPP Session); and/or the current packet's relation to the rate limit ofthe application or queue, for example, an EF rate limit supported forthe ASP PPP session.

Network resources are typically not reserved in this model. Instead,traffic engineering policies and intelligent scheduling and policing ofpackets is leveraged to achieve aggregate QoS characteristics.Similarly, the Differentiated Services (Diffserv) model is leveraged asa way to classify, mark, and schedule packets. The QoS approach that hasbeen applied to the application framework assumes that thesecapabilities are in place and that QoS relationships can be viewedwithin a single subscribers DSL “connection” (ATM VC) between the BRASand the RG.

Further, if a pragmatic approach to providing QoS is taken, someadditional simplifying assumptions can be made. It is expected thatinitially there will only be a small number of applications requiringQoS. The expected applications include VoIP, video conferencing, videoon demand, and gaming. It is unlikely that the majority of DSL customerswill subscribe to all of these services and expect to use themsimultaneously. Rather, it is expected that only a small number ofapplications (e.g., 2 or 3) will need to be managed concurrently on aDSL line basis. The expected applications also imply a certain priorityrelationship among themselves. If while playing an Internet game a VoIPcall comes in, it may be generally agreed that the VoIP session shouldtake precedence over the gaming session (if finishing the game is moreimportant, then the user can choose not to answer the call). As long asthese assumptions hold true, then a small number of applications can bemanaged effectively with a small number of queues and a simple priorityarrangement among them. As the number of applications requiring QoSincreases, however, these assumptions may have to change and the QoSapproach may need to evolve to support a finer granularity.

The number of queues available for applications within the ASP PPPsession is five, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. This may change over time, in accordance with otherembodiments of the present invention, but initially the number of queuesis likely to be small. Diffserv like treatment is assumed whendescribing the queue behaviors and can be classified as one expeditedforwarding (EF) queue, up to 3 assured forwarding (AF) queues or onebest effort (BE) queue. The EF queue typically receives the highestpriority and is typically served first. This queue type is defined forconstant bit rate type servers. A rate limit associated with this queueis put in place so it should not be able to consume all the DSL lineresources. This queue will likely be reserved for voice applications. AFqueues are defined for traffic that is more variable in nature and wouldbe inefficient to associate with a fixed amount of network resources(EF). Queues in this category could receive different levels of priorityor could simply be used as an aggregate priority but each queue may havea different rate limit applied depending on the requirements of theapplication using that queue. To simplify the approach, the frameworkinitially assumes the later case where AF queue receive a “medium”priority treatment and the different queues are used to providedifferent bandwidth needs (i.e. rate limits). A BE queue is the defaultqueue and has resources available to it only after packets that are inprofile for the EF and AF queue are served.

The approach to establishing QoS and bandwidth requirements in thenetwork is one of provisioning rather than signaling. The BRAS and RGwill be provisioned with the classifiers to identify flows and queuethem appropriately. As a result the services that this model supportsare services that fit more into a subscription model rather than aninstantaneous establishment of service and QoS. This potentialdisadvantage, however, does not have to be apparent to the end users.Many services may require that the customer establish an account andperhaps even require the shipment of special hardware or software, forexample, VoIP Phone, PC camera, and the like. During the time frame thatthe customer is establishing service with the ASP, the DSL network canbe provisioned to support the service. It is important to note that theprovisioning time lines are not expected to be in terms of days, butcould be as small as a few minutes depending on how the applicationframework is implemented.

Given that a signaled approach to QoS is not included in the frameworkof certain embodiments of the present invention, real-time admissioncontrol cannot be accomplished at the network layer in such embodiments.While it could be possible to block the subscription of a new servicebased on the current, subscribed services, such a model may be toorestrictive because it does not allow the user to subscribe to twoapplications that they would not intend on using simultaneously.Instead, a strict priority relationship among the applications flows isused to manage simultaneous application interactions. Rate limits arealso applied at the RG and BRAS so that no single application canconsume all the subscriber's DSL resources and to provide some level offairness. An example application relationship, in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention, is shown in FIG. 6 and Table 1. Inthis example, it is assumed that the NSP and PNSP sessions receive besteffort treatment with respect to traffic that is in profile for the EFand AF queues in the ASP session. Other business models are possible asdescribed in Section 4.3.

TABLE 1 Example Application Priority Relationship within the ASP SessionRate Limit of the Application Queue Queue Classification Parameters VoIPSignaling High Priority 100 Kbps SIP Proxy IP Address & SIP Bearer HighPriority 100 Kbps Gateway IP Address & RTP Video Conf Control StreamHigh Priority 100 Kbps SIP Proxy IP Address & SIP Audio/Voice HighPriority 100 Kbps DSCP & MCU IP Address & RTP Video Medium 384 Kbps DSCP& MCU IP Address & Priority RTP Gaming Medium 100k Gaming Server IPAddress Priority HTTP Low Priority None Default

FIG. 6 illustrates a queuing arrangement where there are five queues(EF, AF₁, AF₂, AF₃, and BE) within the ASP session for per applicationtreatment. In this arrangement, these queues can be characterized ashigh (EF), medium (AFs), and low priority (BE) treatment. Table 1illustrates that voice will receive strict priority over otherapplications. Rate limits can be applied to each of the applications toensure that a single application cannot starve out all otherapplications, but this requires dedicating a queue to each rate-limitedapplication. Priority alone may not resolve all of the possibleapplication interactions. In the example above, both the gaming andvideo conferencing video stream have the same priority. In the case thatboth applications are active they would compete over the first 100 k ofbandwidth available to the medium priority class. The rate limitassociated with the AF₂ queue allows the video conferencing applicationto take precedence over the remaining resources up to its queue's ratelimit. If the user experience for either the video stream or the game isunacceptable, the user will have to make their own admission controldecision and pause or shut down the one they wish to have lowerpriority.

4.2 Classification

There are two basic levels of classification that need to be applied inthe framework: The first level is at the PPP session level.Classification at this layer is accomplished through inspection of theFully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN) used when the PPP session isinitiated. The second level is at the application layer—according toflows. To provide an application flow with the proper schedulingtreatment, it is desirable to easily classify the flow. Classificationof application flow may be accomplished using the header fields of theIP or Ethernet Packet (e.g., IP 5 tuple, DSCP, 802.1p). Using theinterface specified in Section 6, ASPs may communicate theclassification information that is used in the BRAS and RG. This sameinterface may be used to communicate the priority and desired bandwidth(rate limit) to be associated with the classifier. In certainembodiments of the present invention, this information is communicatedat subscription time, and is not intended to be established dynamicallyon a per-flow basis. As a result in such embodiments, the classificationinformation is expected to be static. The ASP may provide a well knownIP address, protocol, and/or Port to be used for classificationpurposes.

In particular embodiments of the present invention, within the customerpremises network (CPN), the CPE will be assigned private IP addressesfrom the RG. When traffic leaves the CPN, the RG will perform NPATenabling public routing of the packets. The use of private addressespresents two issues: Given that the CPE behind the RG will be usingdynamic private addresses, they cannot be used as part of theclassification parameters. Secondly, many applications require signalingmessages to convey dynamic IP addresses and port numbers of mediareceivers in their payloads. Existing static IP/transport layer policiesmay not be adequate in supporting session endpoints separated by NAT andfirewall entities. Therefore, Application Layer Gateway (ALG)capabilities may be required at the RG for opening and closing pinholesin the firewalls and maintaining the proper address translations fordynamically created ports associated with flows created by sessionendpoints. Some considerations with regard to ALG capabilities arediscussed in the next sections.

The BRAS can associate the IP address or ATM PVC of the RG with asubscriber and then use the ASP's address to match the source ordestination address of the packets to properly classify the flow. At thecustomer premises, the RG can match the ASP's address as the means ofclassifying the flow. Therefore, only the ASPs IP address (and possiblyport and protocol identifier) may be required for the bi-directionalflow to be classified correctly.

Certain types of applications may require additional information tocapture the flow. For these types of applications, the endpoints mayneed to provide additional classification information in the IP packetheader by marking the diffserv code point. The use of diffserv codepoints (DSCP) may be standardized which may allow the application tointelligently mark packets based on the expected treatment in thenetwork. DSCPs assigned by an untrusted entity can only be used aftersome edge device has performed a check on the classification of thepacket to ensure that it was marked correctly. The RG may not beconsidered a trusted element and, therefore, the BRAS may need to policeany classification performed by the RG—rather than simply accepting theDSCP that was provided. Depending on the relationship to the ASP, theRegional/Access network may be able to trust packets marked by the ASP.If the ASP is not trusted, either the BRAS or some other edge device mayneed to police the DSCPs.

4.3 Business Models for Supporting Concurrent NSP and ASP AccessSessions

FIG. 7 illustrates several bandwidth relationships that can exist on anADSL access loop. In FIG. 7, the outer circle represents the totalbandwidth that is available within a virtual circuit on an ADSL lineafter the modems have been allowed to sync to a higher rate than isconventional. Within this total bandwidth there are two access sessionsshown: an ASP Access Session and a NSP Access Session. The NSP AccessSession, shown in light horizontal stripes, occupies a smaller spacethan the whole Virtual Circuit. This indicates that the NSP accesssession is not allowed to access the total bandwidth on the VirtualCircuit. Conventionally, the NSP Session and the Virtual Circuit wouldhave been the same bandwidth. By increasing the sync rate on the DSLmodems, additional bandwidth is created that exceeds that which the NSPhas purchased.

The ASP access session has essentially the same set of bandwidth as theVirtual Circuit. This would indicate that some set of conditions existwhere the ASP session could occupy all the bandwidth on the ADSL line.Several Applications are shown overlaid on the sessions and within thebandwidth limits assigned to the NSP and ASP. The NSP application (darkhorizontal stripes) is a strict sub-set of the NSP Session and is usinga large fraction of the NSPs allowed bandwidth. The three otherapplications, however, show three salient relationships and businessmodels that can exist between applications in the ASP network and bothapplications as well as the access session for the NSP. Theserelationships will be described in the sections that follow.

4.3.1 Simple Bandwidth Partitioning

The first example is the Headroom Application and is shown in verticalstripes. This application is allowed to make use of only that bandwidththat the NSP could never access. In this type of model, a NSP isprovided a dedicated amount of bandwidth on the access loop—even ifthere is not dedicated bandwidth through the access network. In such anarrangement, ASP applications (or additional NSP access sessions) wouldonly receive bandwidth to which the modems could sync that was over andabove the rate sold to the NSP. In this arrangement, if the sync ratewere at or below the rate sold to the NSP, no additional applications oraccess sessions could be provided. This arrangement may be unnecessarilyrestrictive and may be difficult to implement.

The second example is the Sharing Application (shown checkered). Thisapplication has access to all the bandwidth described by the headroomapplication, but also has access to additional bandwidth sold to theNSP, but not currently in use by applications in the NSP Session. ASharing application can make use of all the bandwidth on the VC, but canonly use the “NSP” bandwidth when the NSP session is not using it.Unlike the previous model, this application can receive bandwidth evenwhen the sync rate is at or below the rate sold to the NSP. If the NSPapplications are making use of all their bandwidth, however, then theresult is similar to the arrangement described in the Headroomapplication. This arrangement could be described as work conserving, andmay be used for simple bandwidth partitioning.

4.3.2 Priority and Dynamic Bandwidth Sharing

The third example is the Competing Application (shown in transparentgray). In this example, the application may have access to some or allof the bandwidth used by the NSP and it may have access to thatbandwidth with greater, equal, or lesser precedence than the NSPapplications. Similarly, this application may also be able to pre-emptbandwidth that other ASP applications are attempting to use. This is themost complex arrangement, and the most flexible. A competing applicationcan compete for the bandwidth that NSP applications are attempting touse. Several cases of competing applications exist:

-   -   1. The first case is when a competing application has the same        precedence as that of the NSP application(s). In this case,        bandwidth is shared fairly according to a typical algorithm,        like round-robin, or Weighted Fair Queuing (WFQ). Also,        inter-application congestion avoidance mechanisms, like those        that are part of TCP can decide how applications would share        bandwidth in this case.    -   2. A second case is when a competing application has greater        precedence than that of the NSP application(s). In this case,        bandwidth is given to the competing application in strict        priority—only “left-over” bandwidth is provided to the other        applications. This is the highest QoS level, and may be provided        with an upper bound on the bandwidth that the application can        obtain, i.e., a rate limit. If the application exceeds the upper        bound, its traffic will be dropped. This case is the most        applicable to a VoIP application because it provides very low        latency and because VoIP is not bursty to the point that the        rate limit would be exceeded.    -   3. A third case is when a competing application has a        combination of higher precedence and equal precedence. A rate,        such as a committed information rate (CIR), is set and the        application gets the same treatment as described in case 2 up to        that rate. If the application bursts above CIR, then that        traffic which bursts is treated differently; it must compete        with the other applications as described in case 1.

4. A fourth case is when a competing application has a combination ofhigher precedence and lower precedence. A rate, such as a CIR, is setand the application gets the same treatment as described in case 2 up tothat rate. If the application bursts above CIR, then that traffic whichbursts is treated differently; it is treated like a sharingapplication—only receiving the leftover bandwidth that the NSPapplication does not use.

-   -   5. A fifth case is when a competing application has a        combination of higher precedence, equal precedence and a strict        rate limit. A rate, such as a CIR, and a second, higher rate,        Peak information Rate (PIR), is set. The application gets the        same treatment as described in case 3 up to the PIR rate. If the        application bursts above PIR, then that traffic will be dropped.    -   6. Finally, there is a case when a competing application has a        combination of higher precedence, equal precedence and lower        precedence. As in case 5, a rate, such as a CIR, and a second,        higher rate, such as a PIR, is set. The application gets the        same treatment as described in case 3 up to the PIR rate.        However, if the application exceeds the PIR, then that traffic        is treated like a sharing application—only receiving the        bandwidth that the NSP does not use.        These treatments can also be provided among ASP applications and        with finer granularity among multiple applications.

4.4 Considerations Associated with this Approach

4.4.1 Static Classifiers

The following issues may be considered when using static classifiers:

-   -   1. There can only be one class of treatment per application.        There is no sense of individual users within the residence using        the same service, but desiring different levels of service.    -   2. Dynamic, commutative peer-to-peer applications cannot be        easily captured.    -   3. Applications with multiple flows between the same        destinations cannot be easily differentiated.        For applications like VoIP and video conferencing where the end        points of a call may not be known a-priori, it is difficult to        use a static classification scheme.

Below are several approaches to resolve these issues:

-   -   a. Force the application to some well-known IP address that can        be used for classification purposes. This is true of a        multipoint videoconference service that leverages a centralized        (ASP provided) MCU or a VoIP call that is destined for a PSTN        gateway or conference bridge. In both these cases, a static        classifier can be used. This same approach could be leveraged        for on-net or point-to-point video calls. These calls could be        routed to utilize an MCU, conference bridge, or PSTN gateway        even though they are not required for any other reason other        than classification. There are vendors in the marketplace that        have developed proxy devices for this purpose. This may be less        resource efficient, however, than allowing the calls to flow        point-to-point.    -   b. Classify based on protocol used. For example, classification        based on the use of RTP could be used. Basing the classification        on protocol alone, however, would enable other applications that        use that same protocol to tale advantage of QoS in the network        without having to pay for it. Additionally, differentiation        between application flows that use the same protocol may not be        achieved (e.g., voice and video using RTP).    -   c. Rely on the CPE to mark packets. In this case the IP phone or        video conference application emits packets marked with the        proper diffserv code point so that the RG and BRAS can classify        based on that marking. Any application choosing to mark their        traffic, however, would be able to take advantage of QoS in the        network without having to pay for it.    -   d. QoS aware Application Layer Gateway (ALG). Similar to the way        ALGs have been developed for allowing signals to traverse NPAT        and firewalls by inspecting signaling messages, a QoS ALG may be        created to inspect the signaling packets for SDP messages and to        dynamically create classifiers during call setup. Given that        initial signaling may be destined for a well known address, (SIP        proxy) the ALG can be statically configured to treat all RTP        flows set up using a given SIP proxy—regardless of the actual        communicating peers. As the ALG inspects the packets to modify        the RG's firewall rules, it can also be used to modify the RG's        classification rules. This type of approach could be leveraged        at the RG, where the number of sessions is small, but may        present scaling issues if implemented in the BRAS.    -   e. Establish the classification information at call set up. This        may require complex real time signaling mechanisms to be in        place in the network to modify classifiers at call establishment        and teardown.

Until a signaling approach is available, using an approach similar tothat described in (a) appears to be the most reasonable from atechnology and service offering perspective. A video conferencing ASPthat does not provide centralized Media Control Unit (MCU) capabilitiesmay only add limited value above that which is already available in themarket. In the near term, most VoIP calls will likely be destined forPSTN gateways, and this arrangement provides a simple way to classify.

Differentiating applications with multiple flows between the samedestinations, is typically seen within (but is not limited to)commutative services, like video conferencing. These applicationstypically have multiple flows (control/signaling, audio, and video)associated with a single application, and there may be a desire to treatthem differently. As long as they use different well-known IP addressesor protocol types, then a static classifier can be used. Unfortunately,when the same protocol type is used (e.g., RTP for both audio and video)then there may not be a way to differentiate those streams if they areboth destined for the same IP interface (e.g., MCU). Below are threeapproaches to resolve this issue:

-   -   a. Require applications to use separate IP interfaces that        expect differentiated treatment. An MCU, for example, could        define one IP interface for video and another for audio. This        would enable separate classification in the upstream and        downstream direction in the RG and BRAS. Depending on the        direction of the flow, either the source or destination can be        used to match to the ASPs IP interfaces.    -   b. Rely on the application to mark packets. In this case, the        videoconference application emits packets marked to the proper        diffserv code point so that the RG and BRAS could classify based        on that marking. As long as the packets are being transmitted to        a well-known address, the classifier can use the combination of        the DSCP and the destination IP. Given that there is a fixed IP        address, no other applications would be able to utilize the QoS        intended for this application.    -   c. Rely on knowledge of the actual RTP ports used by each of the        flows to enable different treatments. This can be accomplished        by statically assigning ports using a QoS ALG function as        described above, or through the use of a signaling protocol.

4.4.2 Queue Structure

As the number of applications requiring QoS increases, so does thecomplexity of managing them in the access network. Over time, as moreand more ASPs deploy applications requiring QoS and bandwidthmanagement, the likelihood that multiple applications will be runningsimultaneously within the CPN may increase. The complexity of managingthese applications in a small number of queues with only three levels ofprecedence may become increasingly difficult given that there may nolonger be a well-defined priority relationship among them. One approachwould be to increase the number of queue types and behaviors. Diffservdefines four assured forwarding (AF) classes each with three levels ofdrop precedence. The addition of multiple AF classes to a strictpriority class (EF) and a low priority class (BE) already defined in theapplication framework can provide more granularity in queue andapplication behavior. It is unlikely, however, that the number of queuescan be scaled with the number of applications available.

While a limited number of additional queues may be available, theirexpected behavior may become increasingly complex to describe.Unfortunately, to make use of these additional behaviors, applicationsmust be able to define their requirements in a way that fits into thismodel. This becomes a challenge for two reasons: First, manyapplications do not understand that level of granularity andparticularly will not understand what other applications will be vyingfor the DSL line resources. Secondly, describing the inter-queue orinter-application behavior to ASPs so they can make use of thesecapabilities becomes more difficult as the number of queues increaseswithout strictly defining the amount of resources reserved per queue.This difficulty is in part the result of how diffserv was designed.Diffserv was not defined with the intent of managing per applicationflow behavior. Rather, it was defined to manage aggregate flow behaviorsin the core of the network. As the number of simultaneous applicationsincreases in the CPN and access network, the use of diffserv withoutresource reservation breaks down.

Leveraging a resource reservation approach can provide a mechanism formanaging increasing numbers of applications. The reservation scheme neednot necessarily require signaling. At subscription, time applicationscould reserve specific queues and could provide an intermediatesolution. Longer term, as the number of applications continues to grow,a more dynamic reservation of resources will be required. In the dynamiccase, applications may be able to reserve specific queues for theduration of the application flow, which will be released when they aredone. In doing so, admission control to the DSL resources can beprovided in a way that the applications behavior can be more clearlydescribed. Use of Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP) would provide anexample of the former case. While having been defined for some time,actual RSVP implementations are elusive due to its general complexityand scaling limitations. Admission control provides one way to providean application dedicated resources or to provide an indication whenresources are not available. While conceptually attractive, it remainsunclear if the complexity of such an approach is feasible.

5. REFERENCE DATA MODEL

In this section a description of the data required in each of thefunctional domains of the architecture (Regional/Access Network, RG,ASP, NSP, and subscriber) is presented. FIG. 8 illustrates a high levelrepresentation of the relationships between the different domains inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Based on thisabstract view of the domains involved in providing an end-to-endservice, a data model can be constructed.

Dotted lines 1 and 2 illustrated in FIG. 8 indicate that information isexchanged between the modules not specifically discussed with respect tothe interface reference model. The dashed lines illustrated in FIG. 8indicate a physical connection and the solid lines illustrated in FIG. 8indicate that information is exchanged within the scope of the interfacereference model. In particular, lines 1 and 2 illustrate exchangesbetween the subscriber and the NSP and ASP, respectively, when thesubscriber, for example, signs up for service. Line 3 illustrates theconfiguration of the RG by the Regional/Access Network. It will beunderstood that this may only be for the initial install. The ACSlocated with in the Regional/Access Network may handle all subsequentconfiguration changes. Line 4 illustrates the initiation of accesssessions that are terminated in the DSL network. The ACS located with inthe Regional/Access Network may communicate with the RG forconfiguration updates. Finally, lines 5 and 6 of FIG. 8 illustratecommunication between the NSP/ASP and the DSL network that establishes aDSL connection. The ASP and NSP may also communicate bandwidth and QoSchanges per session or application.

FIG. 9 depicts a UML model capturing the type of data used to supportbandwidth and QoS management in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention. This model is provided for illustration purposes onlyand is not intended to represent a complete deployment implementation,which may use a wider scope of information beyond bandwidth and QoS.FIGS. 10 through 12 provide additional details within the main domains,in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, and aredescribed below. The remainder of this section provides a detaileddescription of the data records and attributes captured in the presentedUML model.

5.1 Subscriber Maintained Data

The following data elements are maintained at Subscriber Premises (thisrecord is maintained by the subscriber—it could be stored on a PC or anyother storage device/media) in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention:

Record Type Elements Description Source NSPSubscriber The subscribersneed to know their PPP Session DSL_line_ID, NSPSubscriber_ID and RecordNSPSubscriber_Password for accessing their 970 NSP networks. Only asingle NSP PPP session record can exist. DSL_Line_ID DSL_Line_ID is aunique identifier for the DSL DSL_Line_ID is provided line. Currentlythe TN is used as such an by the Regional/Access identifier. NetworkProvider at subscription time. NSPSubscriber_ID This ID is used foraccessing the NSP networks. Assigned by the NSP at the time ofsubscription NSPSubscriber_Password Subscriber_Password is initially setby the NSP, Initially assigned by the later it can be changed by theSubscriber. It is NSP at subscription time. used together with theNSPSubscriber_ID to Can be changed by the access the NSP networks.subscriber. Personal The subscribers need to know their NSPSubscriberDSL_line_ID, PersonalNSPSubscriber_ID and PPP Session PersonalNSPSubscriber_Password for accessing Record their Personal NSP network.Multiple records 974 can exist. DSL_Line_ID As defined above As definedabove PersonalNSP This ID is used for accessing the Personal NSPAssigned by the Personal Subscriber_ID networks. NSP at the time ofsubscription. PersonalNSPSubscriber_Password It is used together withthe Initially assigned by the PersonalNSPSubscriber_ID to access thePNSP PNSP at the time of networks. subscription. Can be changed by thesubscriber. ASPSubscriber The subscribers need to know their PPP SessionDSL_line_ID. ASPSubscriber_ID and Record ASPSubscriber_Password foraccessing their 972 ASP services. For each application they subscribeto, they need to maintain their User_ID and Password. Only one ASP PPPsession record can exist. DSL_Line_ID As defined above As defined aboveASPSubscriber_ID This ID is used for accessing the ASP networks.Provided by ASP at the time of subscription ASPSubscriber_Password It isused together with the ASPSubscriber_ID to Initially assigned by ASPaccess the ASP networks. at the time of subscription. Can be changed bythe subscriber. User Account This record is maintained by user/users ofCreated at the time of Record services provided over the Regional/Accesssubscription to ASP 976, 978, 980 Network. A user account is tied to asubscriber services account. Multiple user accounts can be associatedwith a single subscriber account. Note: There is one or multiple UserAccount Record under each of the NSPSubscriber PPP Session Record,Personal NSPSubscriber PPP Session Record, and ASPSubscriber PPP SessionRecord. User_ID This ID is used for accessing the given service.Assigned by a given ASP to a particular user at the time subscriptionUser_Password It is used together with the User_ID to access a Initiallyassigned by a given service. given ASP to a particular user at the timeof subscription. Can be changed by the subscriber.

5.2 Routing Gateway

Routing Gateway is a customer premises functional element that providesIP routing and QoS capabilities. The main functions of the RG mayinclude one or more of: IP routing between the CPN and the AccessNetwork; multi-user, multi-destination support (Multiple simultaneousPPPoE sessions (started from the RG or from devices inside the CPN) inconjunction with non-PPP encapsulated IP (bridged) sessions); networkAddress Port Translation (NAPT); PPPoE pass though; multiple queues withscheduling mechanism; and/or IP QoS.

The following data elements are maintained at the RG in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention:

Record Type Elements Description Source Routing Routing Gateway Recordis maintained by RG. It is initialized with the initial Gateway Recordconfiguration by the manufacturer 902 or configured by the user duringthe install process. The ACS can also update this record during andafter the initial install. DSL_Line_ID As defined above As defined aboveDSL_Sync_Rate DSL_Sync_Rate is the current physical layer It ispopulated by RG during modem synch rate of the DSL line. This recordtraining. includes both upstream and downstream metrics. It alsoincludes what is the maximum obtainable synch rate NSP PPP NSP PPPSession Record is maintained by the Session Record RG to storeinformation specific to the 904 community NSP access session. Thissession is launched by the RG and provides the CPN with a default route.Only one community NSP record can exist. NSPSubscriber_ID This ID isused for accessing the DSL and NSP Assigned by NSP at subscriptionnetworks. time. NSPSubscriber_Password It is used together with theSubscriber_ID to NSPSubscriber_Password is initially access the DSL andNSP networks. set by the NSP, later it can be changed by the Subscriber.Session_Classifier This parameter contains classification This value ispopulated based on parameters to identify the NSP PPP sessionconfiguration data received from the (i.e. Ethertype and FQDN). ACS.Session_Priority Optional - Indicates the priority level of the Thisvalue is populated based on NSP PPP connection relative to the other PPPconfiguration data received from the sessions present - only required ifDSL ACS. bandwidth is shared across PPP sessions and need to establish apriority relationship across the PPP sessions Session_Bandwidth TheSession_Bandwidth contains information This value is initialized basedon a about the maximum bandwidth assigned to this default value or onthe Profile Data NSP PPP access session. received from the ACS. ASP PPPASP PPP Session Record is maintained by the Session Record RG to storeinformation specific to the ASP 906 access session. This PPP session islaunched by the RG and receives routes, via RIP, to the ASP network.Only one ASP record can exist. ASPSubscriber_ID This ID is used foraccessing the ASP network Assigned by ASP at subscription (andpotentially ASP applications although the time RG would not beinvolved). ASPSubscriber_Password It is used together with theASPSubscriber_ID Initially set by the ASP, later it can to access theRegional/Access Network. (and be changed by the Subscriber potentiallyASP applications although the RG would not be involved)Session_Classifier This parameter contains classification This value ispopulated based on parameters to identify the ASP PPP sessionconfiguration data received from the (i.e. Ethertype and FQDN). ACS.Session_Priority Optional - Indicates the priority level of the Thisvalue is populated based on ASP PPP connection relative to the other PPPconfiguration data received from the sessions present - only required ifDSL ACS. bandwidth is shared across PPP sessions and need to establish apriority relationship across the PPP sessions Session_Bandwidth TheSession_Bandwidth contains information This value is populated based onabout the maximum bandwidth (upstream and configuration data receivedfrom the downstream) assigned to this ASP PPP access ACS. session.Application The Application Flow Record is maintained Flow Record by theRG for each application service that 910 subscriber or users of the DSLline subscribe to. It is used to store application specific data.Multiple application records can exist. Flow_Classifier Flow_Classifiercontains classification This value is populated based on parameters toidentify the application flow (IP configuration data received from the 5tuple). ACS. Flow_Priority Indicates the priority level of theapplication This value is populated based on within the ASP PPPconnection. This configuration data received from the parameterindicates the treatment of the ACS. application flow (what queue itshould be placed in) as well as any marking requirements (DSCP).Flow_Bandwidth Flow_Bandwidth parameter is assigned to the This value ispopulated based on given application based on the negotiated valueconfiguration data received from the between the ASP and theRegional/Access ACS. Network. It indicates the maximum upstream anddownstream bandwidth. It is used by the RG to shape and police theapplication flow. Personal NSP Personal NSP PPP Session Record is PPPSession maintained by the RG to store information Record specific to thePersonal NSP access session. 908 Multiple records can exist.Session_Classifier This parameter contains classification This value ispopulated based on parameters to identify the PNSP PPP sessionconfiguration data received from the (i.e. Ethertype and FQDN). ACS.Session_Priority Optional - Indicates the priority level of the Thisvalue is populated based on PNSP PPP connection relative to the otherPPP configuration data received from the sessions present - onlyrequired if DSL ACS. bandwidth is shared across PPP sessions and need toestablish a priority relationship across the PPP sessions.Session_Bandwidth The Session_Bandwidth contains information This valueis populated based on about the maximum bandwidth assigned to theconfiguration data received from the PNSP access service. ACS.

5.3 Regional/Access Network

The primary function of the Regional/Access Network is to provideend-to-end data transport between the customer premises and the NSP orASP. The Regional/Access Network may also provide higher layerfunctions, such as QoS and bandwidth management. QoS may be provided bytightly coupling traffic-engineering capabilities of the RegionalNetwork with the capabilities of the BRAS.

The following data elements are maintained at the Regional/AccessNetwork in, for example, a Regional/Access Network Record 920 inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention:

Record Type Elements Description Source DSL Line Record The DSL linerecord is maintained in the 922 Regional/Access Network and is unique toeach DSL line. It maintains data specific to a DSL line and the sessionsthat traverse it. DSL_Line_ID As defined above As defined aboveDSL_Sync_Rate DSL_Sync_Rate is the current physical This data isobtained from the layer synch rate of the DSL line. This DSLAM EMS andthe RG record includes both upstream and downstream metrics. It alsoincludes what are the maximum obtainable data rates in either direction.NSP PPP Session NSP PPP Session Record is maintained by Record theRegional/Access Network to store 926 information specific to thecommunity NSP PPP access sessions. The NSP access record is tied to theDSL Line Record. Only one can exist. SP_ID Uniquely identifies the NSPthat the Assigned by the subscriber has a relationship with. Used toRegional/Access Network cross reference users to NSPs who make Providerwhen a wholesale turbo/QoS requests. relationship is established withthe NSP Session_Classifier This parameter contains classificationProvided by the NSP at parameters to identify the NSP PPP sessionsubscription time. (i.e. Ethertype and FQDN). Session_PriorityOptional - Indicates the priority level of the The Regional/AccessNetwork NSP PPP connection relative to the other Provider initializesthis value at PPP sessions present - only required if subscription timebased on the DSL bandwidth is shared across PPP business model and typeof sessions and need to establish a priority wholesale access that isbeing relationship across the PPP sessions sold to the NSP and itsrelationship to the ASP or the PNSP sessions. Session_Bandwidth TheSession_Bandwidth contains This value is set by the NSP. informationabout the maximum bandwidth (upstream and downstream) assigned to thisNSP PPP session. PersonalNSP PPP PersonalNSP PPP Session Record isSession Record maintained by the Regional/Access 930 Network to storeinformation specific to the Personal NSP PPP access sessions. Multiplerecords can exist. SP_ID As defined above As defined aboveSession_Classifier This parameter contains classification Provided bythe NSP at parameters to identify the PNSP PPP subscription time.session (i.e. Ethertype and FQDN). Session_Priority Optional - Indicatesthe priority level of the The Regional/Access Network PNSP PPPconnection relative to the other Provider initializes this value at PPPsessions present - only required if subscription time based on the DSLbandwidth is shared across PPP business model and type of sessions andneed to establish a priority wholesale access that is being relationshipacross the PPP sessions sold to the NSP and its relationship to the ASPor the PNSP sessions. Assigned by PNSP and passed to Regional/Accessnetwork via NNI message interface. Session_Bandwidth TheSession_Bandwidth contains This value is initially set by theinformation about the maximum bandwidth PNSP, (upstream and downstream)assigned to this PNSP PPP session. ASP PPP Session ASP PPP SessionRecord is maintained by Record the Regional/Access Network to store 928information specific to the ASP PPP session. The ASP PPP Record is tiedto the DSL Line Record. Only one ASP record can exist. SP_ID As definedabove As defined above Session_Classifier This parameter containsclassification Provided by the ASP at parameters to identify the ASP PPPsession subscription time (i.e. Ethertype and FQDN). Session_PriorityOptional - Indicates the priority level of the The Regional/AccessNetwork ASP PPP connection relative to the other Provider initializesthis value at PPP sessions present - only required if subscription timebased on the DSL bandwidth is shared across PPP business model and typeof sessions and need to establish a priority wholesale access that isbeing relationship across the PPP sessions sold to the NSP and itsrelationship to the ASP or the PNSP sessions. Assigned by ASP and passedto Regional/Access network via NNI message interface. Session_BandwidthThe Session_Bandwidth contains This value is initially set by theinformation about the maximum bandwidth Regional/Access Network(upstream and downstream) assigned to this Provider, but could bemodified ASP PPP session. by individual ASPs that request more bandwidthfor their application. An alternative model is that this value is set tothe max value initially and ASPs only affect their allotment ofbandwidth within the PPP session. Application Flow The Application FlowRecord contains Record specific details about an application within 932the ASP session. This record is tied to the ASP account record. Manyapplication records can be associated with an ASP account record.Flow_Classifier Flow_Classifier contains classification Values providedby the ASP. parameters to identify the application flow (IP 5 tuple). Itis used by the BRAS & the RG. Flow_Priority Indicates the priority levelof the Provided by the ASP. application within the ASP PPP connection.Regional/Access Network This parameter indicates the treatment ofProvider provides available the application flow (what queue it shouldoptions to select. be placed in) as well as any marking requirements(DSCP). It is used by the BRAS and the RG Flow_Bandwidth Flow_Bandwidthparameter is assigned to These values are provided by the givenapplication based on the the ASP to meet the needs of the negotiatedvalue between the ASP and the application. Regional/Access Network. Itindicates the maximum upstream and downstream bandwidth. It is used bythe BRAS & the RG to shape and police the application flow. ServiceProvider The service Provider Record is used to Record authenticateservice providers (NSPs, 924 ASPs) who wish to query the Regional/AccessNetwork for information and make bandwidth and or QoS requests. SP_ID Asdefined above As defined above SP_Credentials Used to authenticate thisservice provider Assigned by the together with SP_ID when connecting toRegional/Access Network the Regional/Access Network. ProviderAuthorization Represents what records the SP has access Assigned by theto (DSL line records can it make Regional/Access Networkqueries/modifications to) Provider CDR_Data Stores billing data forwholesale access to This data is generated by the Turbo and QoS controlsRegional/Access Network Provider

5.4 Application Service Provider

The Application Service Provider (ASP) is defined as a Service Providerthat shares a common infrastructure provided by the Regional/AccessNetwork and an IP address assigned and managed by the Regional NetworkProvider. In particular embodiments of the present invention, the ASPprovides one or more of: application services to the subscriber (gaming,video, content on demand, IP Telephony, etc.); service assurancerelating to this application service; additional software or CPE; and/ora contact point for all subscriber problems related to the provision ofspecific service applications and any related subscriber software.However, the ASP may not provide or manage the assignment of IP addressto the subscribers.

The following data elements may be maintained at the ASP in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention:

Record Type Elements Description Source ASP Record ASP Record ismaintained by each service provider. 960 This record contains theservice provider's name, password, and other related information thatidentifies this unique ASP and is used to communicate withRegional/Access Network Provider. ASP_ID Used to uniquely identify anASP that has a business Assigned by relationship with Regional/AccessNetwork Regional/Access Network Provider. Provider at the time ofconnecting the ASP to the ASP network. ASP_Credentials Used toauthenticate an ASP together with ASP_ID Assigned by when a servicesession is established with a Regional/Access Network Regional/AccessNetwork Provider. Provider at the time of connecting the ASP to the ASPnetwork. ASP Subscriber ASP Subscriber Record is maintained by ASP thatRecord provides the application service. This record 962 uniquelyidentifies the subscriber and service related data. DSL_Line_ID Asdefined above As defined above ASPSubscriber_ID This ID is used foraccessing the DSL and ASP Assigned by the ASP at the networks. time ofsubscription. ASPSubscriber_Password It is used together with theASPSubscriber_ID to Assigned by the ASP at the access the ASPapplication. time of subscription. Note: The ASP Subscriber ID andPassword are only used by ASP for its own purpose and will not be usedor referenced by Regional/Access Network for authentication purpose. Itis just for maintaining ASP data integrity. Session_Classifier Localcopy of Regional/Access Network ASP PPP Acquired from the SessionClassification info. Regional/Access Network through the ANI interface.Session_Priority Local copy of Regional/Access Network ASP PPP Acquiredfrom the Session Priority info. Regional/Access Network through the ANIinterface. Session_Bandwidth Local copy of the Regional/Access NetworkASP Acquired from the PPP Session Bandwidth Info. Regional/AccessNetwork through the ANI interface. Application Flow This record ismaintained by the ASP and used to Control Record store applicationspecific information such as 966 bandwidth arrangement and QoS settings.This record is tied to the ASP bandwidth Record. Multiple ApplicationRecord can be associated with one single ASP bandwidth record.Flow_Classifier Flow_Classifier contains classification parametersValues provided by the ASP. to identify the application flow (IP 5tuple). It is used by the BRAS & the RG. Flow_Priority Indicates thepriority level of the application within Provided by the ASP. The theASP PPP connection. This parameter indicates Regional/Access Network thetreatment of the application flow (what queue it Provider specifiesavailable should be placed in) as well as any marking options to select.requirements (DSCP). It is used by the BRAS and the RG Flow_BandwidthFlow_Bandwidth parameter is assigned to the given These values areprovided application based on the negotiated value between by the ASP tomeet the the ASP and the Regional/Access Network Provider. needs of theapplication. It indicates the maximum upstream and downstream bandwidth.It is used by the BRAS & the RG to shape and police the applicationflow. ASP User Account This record is maintained by the ASP. An ASP user964 account is tied to an ASP subscriber account. Multiple user accountscan be associated with a single subscriber account. User_ID This ID isused for accessing the given service. Assigned by a given ASP to aparticular user. User_Password It is used together with the User_ID toaccess a User_Password is initially given service. assigned by an ASP.Can be changed by the user.

5.5 Network Service Provider

The Network Service Provider (NSP) is defined as a Service Provider thatrequires extending a Service Provider-specific Internet Protocol (IP)address. This is the typical application of conventional DSL service.The NSP owns and procures addresses that they, in turn, allocateindividually or in blocks to their subscribers. The subscribers aretypically located in Customer Premises Networks (CPNs). The NSP servicemay be subscriber-specific, or communal when an address is shared usingNAPT throughout a CPN. The NSP may include Internet Service Providers(ISPs) and Corporate Service Providers (CSPs); may be responsible foroverall service assurance; may provide CPE, or software to run oncustomer-owned CPE, to support a given service; may provide the customercontact point for any and all customer related problems related to theprovision of this service; and/or may authenticate access and providesand manages the assignment of IP address to the subscribers.

The following data elements are maintained at the NSP in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention:

Record Type Elements Description Source NSP Record NSP Record ismaintained by each NSP. This 940, 950 record contains the serviceprovider's name, password, and other related information that identifiesthis unique service provider and is used communicate with access NSP.NSP_ID Uniquely identifies the NSP that the subscriber Assigned byRegional/Access has a relationship with. Used to cross Network Providerat the time reference users to NSPs who make turbo/QoS of connecting theNSP. requests NSP_Credentials Used to authenticate this NSP togetherwith Assigned by Regional/Access NSP_ID when a service session isestablished Network Provider at the time with a DSL access network forrequesting a of connecting the NSP. network service. NSP Subscriber NSPSubscriber Record is maintained by NSP Record that provides the networkservice. This record 942, 952 uniquely identifies the subscriber andservice related data. DSL_Line_ID As defined above As defined aboveNSPSubscriber_ID This ID is used for accessing the DSL and Assigned to aDSL subscriber NSP networks. by the NSP. NSPSubscriber_Password It isused together with the NSPSubscriber_ID Assigned by the ASP at the toaccess the NSP application. time of subscription. Note: The NSPSubscriber ID and Password are only used by NSP for its own purpose andwill not be used or referenced by Regional/Access Network forauthentication purpose. It is just for maintaining the NSP dataintegrity. Session_Classifier Local copy of Regional/Access Network NSPAcquired from the PPP Session Classification info Regional/AccessNetwork through the NNI interface. Session_Priority Local copy ofRegional/Access Network NSP Acquired from the PPP Session Priority info.Regional/Access Network through the NNI interface. Session_BandwidthLocal copy of the Regional/Access Network Acquired from the ASP PPPSession Bandwidth Info. Regional/Access Network through the NNIinterface. NSP User Account This record is maintained by the NSP A NSP944, 954 user account is tied to an NSP subscriber account. Multipleuser accounts can be associated with a single subscriber account.User_ID This ID is used for accessing the given service. Assigned by agiven NSP to a particular user. User_Password User_Password is initiallyassigned by a NSP. Can be changed by the user.

6. REFERENCE INTERFACE SPECIFICATION AND DETAILED MESSAGE FLOW

This interface reference specification defines an interface between theRegional/Access Network and a Network Service Provider (NSP), a PersonalNSP (PNSP), and an Application Service Provider (ASP) as well as aninterface between the Regional/Access Network and Routing Gateway (RG)for enabling the NSP/PNSP/ASP to utilize the bandwidth and QoSmanagement capabilities provided by the Regional/Access Network in theirNSP/PNSP/ASP applications, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

6.1 Interface Between RG and Regional/Access Network

This section defines the messaging interface between the Regional/AccessNetwork and the Routing Gateway, in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention. This interface does not define any message for RGor ACS authentication assuming both of them are part of the DSL Networkinfrastructure.

1. UpdateSessionBandwidthInfo (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID, Session_Classifier,Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to a specified RG(via ACS) as a notification when new bandwidth and QoS information for aPPP session becomes available. The bandwidth and QoS related parametersinclude Session_Classifier, Session_Priority, and Session_Bandwidth.These parameters will be stored in the NSP PPP Session Record, PNSP PPPSession Record, or ASP PPP Session Record depending on the SP_ID. Thesesession records are defined in the DSL Data Reference Model.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.Session_Classifier: PPP session classifier.Session_Priority: Session priority indicator.Session_Bandwidth: Bandwidth data including upstream bandwidth anddownstream bandwidth.

2. UpdateSessionBandwidthAck (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

This message is sent from the RG to the Regional/Access Network (viaACS) as an acknowledgement of receiving the update session bandwidthinformation notification.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.

3. UpdateAppFlowControlInfo (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID, Flow_Classifier,Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to a specified RG(via ACS) as a notification of new bandwidth and QoS info forapplication flow becoming available. The parameters includingFlow_Classifier, Flow_Priority, and Flow_Bandwidth will replace theexisting data stored in the Application Flow Control Record defined inthe Regional/Access Data Reference Model.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.Flow_Classifier: Application flow classifier.Flow_Priority: Priority queue indicator.Flow_Bandwidth: Flow bandwidth information for shaping and policing.

4. UpdateAppFlowControlAck (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

This message is sent from the RG to the Regional/Access Network (viaACS) as an acknowledgement of receiving the update application flowcontrol info notification.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.

5. UpdateSessionBandwidthRequest (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

This message is sent from the RG to the Regional/Access Network (viaACS) as a request for obtaining the PPP session level of the bandwidthand QoS settings stored at the Regional/Access Network for the specifiedsubscriber line.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.

6. UpdateSessionBandwidthResponse (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Session_Classifier, Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the RG (viaACS) as a response for getting the PPP session level of the bandwidthand QoS settings request.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.Session_Classifier: PPP session classifier.Session_Priority: Session priority indicator.Session_Bandwidth: Session bandwidth information including upstreambandwidth and downstream bandwidth.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

7. UpdateAppFlowControlRequest (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

This message is sent from the RG to the Regional/Access Network (viaACS) as a request for obtaining the application flow level of thebandwidth and QoS settings stored at the Regional/Access Network for thespecified subscriber line.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.

8. UpdateAppFlowControlResponse (DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID, Flow_Classifier,Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the RG (viaACS) as a response for getting the application flow level of thebandwidth and QoS settings request.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be NSP, PNSP, or ASP.Flow_Classifier: Application flow classifier.Flow_Priority: Priority queue indicator.Flow_Bandwidth: Flow bandwidth information for shaping and policing.Return_Code: Return code from the DSL Network, indicating if the requestis accomplished successfully.

6.2 Interface Between Regional/Access Network and ASP

This section defines the messaging interface between the Regional/AccessNetwork and the Application Service Providers, in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

1. EstablishServiceSessionRequest (SP_ID, SP_Credentials) This messageis sent from an ASP to the Regional/Access Network as a request forestablishing a communication session. All the ASPs need to beauthenticated by the Regional/Access Network before the networkbandwidth and QoS service capabilities can be accessed. With thisrequest, the ASP can specify a life span of this session by providing alife span parameter that could be imbedded in the SP_Credentials. Whenthe specified life span expires, the ASP must resend this request toestablish a new service session.SP_ID: Service Provider Identification. SP_Credentials: Service ProviderCredentials.

2. EstablishServiceSessionResponse (Authorization, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the communication session establishmentrequest. The Regional/Access Network returns an authorization codeindicating what services and resources are authorized for the serviceprovider to access.

Authorization: Authorization code indicating what Regional/AccessNetwork resources is authorized for the service provider to access.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

3. CreateAppFlowControlRecordRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier, Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from an ASP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for creating an application specific flow control record definedas Application Flow Control Record in DSL Data Model. The initialsettings are provided with Flow_Classifier, SP_ID, Flow_Priority, andFlow_Bandwidth.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be ASP.Flow_Classifier: 5-tuple (source IP address, source port, destination IPaddress, destination port, protocol type) identifying a uniqueapplication flow.Flow_Priority: Priority queue settingFlow_Bandwidth: Flow bandwidth information for shaping and policing.

4. CreateAppFlowControlRecordResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the ASP as aresponse for the creation of the application flow control recordrequest.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

5. DeleteAppFlowControlRecordRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier)

This message is sent from an ASP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for deleting an Application Flow Control Record defined in DSLData Model.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider can only be ASP.Flow_Classifier: Identifier of an application flow.

6. DeleteAppFlowControlRecordResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the ASP as aresponse for the deletion of the application flow control recordrequest.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

7. ChangeAppFlowControlRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier, Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth)

An ASP can send this message to the Regional/Access Network as a requestfor changing the Priority and Shaping Data defined in the ApplicationFlow Control Record of the DSL Data Model.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: The identifier of service provider requesting for service. Theservice provider should be an ASP.Flow_Classifier: Application traffic flow identifier.Flow_Priority: The application priority queue indicator for replacingthe existing settings.Flow_Bandwidth Flow bandwidth information for replacing the existingsettings.

8. ChangeAppFlowControlResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the bandwidth change request. A Return_Codeis sent back indicating whether the change is successful.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

9. QueryAppFlowControlRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier)

An ASP can send this message to the Regional/Access Network as a requestfor querying the application specific priority and shaping informationcontained in the Application Flow Control Record.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line ID.SP_ID: Identifier of the service provider requesting for bandwidth andpriority in formation.Flow_Classifier: Identifier of an application flow.

10. QueryAppFlowControlResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Flow_Classifier,Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the bandwidth info request. The bandwidthdata record is returned.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Flow_Classifier: Identifier of an application flow.Flow_Priority: Current priority queue setting.Flow_Bandwidth: Current bandwidth setting for shaping and policing.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

11. QuerySessionBandwidthRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

An ASP, can send this message to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for querying the PPP session bandwidth and priority informationassociated with the specified DSL_Line_ID. The data is stored in ASP PPPSession record defined in the DSL Data Model.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line ID.SP_ID: Identifier of the service provider requesting for bandwidth andpriority information.

12. QuerySessionBandwidthResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Session_Classifier,Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the bandwidth info request. The bandwidthdata record is returned.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Session_Classifier: PPP session classifier used to identify PPP sessiontraffic flow.Session_Priority: Current Priority queue setting.Session_Bandwidth: Current session bandwidth setting.

13. TerminateServiceSessionRequest (SP_ID, Authorization)

This message is sent from an ASP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for terminating a communication session.

SP_ID: Service Provider Identification.

Authorization: Authorization code indicating what Regional/AccessNetwork resources is authorized for the service provider to access.

14. TerminateServiceSessionResponse (SP_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the communication session terminationrequest.

SP_ID: Service Provider Identification.

Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

6.3 Interface Between Regional/Access Network and NSP

This section defines the messaging interface between the Regional/AccessNetwork and Network Service Provider, in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

1. EstablishServiceSessionRequest (SP_ID, SP_Credentials)

This message is sent from a NSP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for establishing a communication session. The NSPs need to beauthenticated by the Regional/Access Network before the networkbandwidth and QoS service capabilities can be accessed. With thisrequest, the NSP can specify a life cycle of this session by providing alife span parameter imbedded in the SP_Credentials. When the specifiedlife span expires, the NSP must resend this request to establish a newservice session.

SP_ID: Service Provider Identification. SP_Credentials: Service ProviderCredentials. 2. EstablishServiceSessionResponse (Authorization,Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the communication session establishmentrequest. The Regional/Access Network returns an authorization codeindicating what services and resources are authorized for the serviceprovider to access.

Authorization: Authorization code indicating what Regional/AccessNetwork resources is authorized for the service provider to access.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

3. ChangeSessionBandwidthRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Session_Classifier, Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth)

A NSP can send this message to the Regional/Access Network as a requestfor changing the PPP session bandwidth and priority informationassociated with the specified DSL_Line_ID. The data is stored in the NSPPPP Session Record defined in the DSL Data Model.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.SP_ID: Identifier of service provider requesting for service.Session_Classifier: PPP session classifier used to identify PPP sessiontraffic flow.Session_Priority: Session priority indicator setting to replace thecurrent one.Session_Bandwidth: Session bandwidth information for replacing theexisting one.

4. ChangeSessionBandwidthResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the bandwidth change request. A Return_Codeis sent back indicating whether the change is successful.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

5. QuerySessionBandwidthRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

A NSP can send this message to the Regional/Access Network as a requestfor querying the PPP session bandwidth and priority informationassociated with the specified DSL_Line_ID. The data is stored in the NSPPPP Session Record defined in the DSL Data Model.

Authorization: Authorization code obtained when the service session isestablished.DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line ID.SP_ID: Identifier of the service provider requesting for bandwidth andpriority information.

6. QuerySessionBandwidthResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Session_Classifier,Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the bandwidth info request. The bandwidthdata record is returned.

DSL_Line_ID: Subscriber's line identification.Session_Classifier: PPP session classifier used to identify PPP sessiontraffic flow.Session_Priority: Current Priority queue setting.Session_Bandwidth: Current session bandwidth setting.

7. TerminateServiceSessionRequest (SP_ID, Authorization)

This message is sent from an NSP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for terminating a communication session.

SP_ID: Service Provider Identification.

Authorization: Authorization code indicating what Regional/AccessNetwork resources is authorized for the service provider to access.

8. TerminateServiceSessionResponse (SP_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from the Regional/Access Network to the serviceprovider as a response for the communication session terminationrequest.

SP_ID: Service Provider Identification.

Return_Code: Return code from the Regional/Access Network, indicating ifthe request is accomplished successfully.

6.4 Application Framework Infrastructure

An Application Framework Infrastructure, in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention, is illustrated in FIG. 13 and is areference implementation model for enabling the ASP, NSP, and/orPersonal NSP to utilize the bandwidth and QoS management capabilities.This framework infrastructure is supported by seven functional elements,including ANI Protocol Handler, NNI Protocol Handler, UNI ProtocolHandler, DSL Service Manager, DSL Session Data Store, ProvisionInterface, and BRAS Adapter, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention. For realizing the DSL network bandwidth and QoSmanagement capabilities, this infrastructure may interact with theRouting Gateway via an Automated Configuration Server (ACS) and the BRASto set appropriate policies upon receiving a request from the ASP, NSP,or PNSP, as depicted in FIG. 13.

The communication interface between the Regional/Access Network and anASP is defined as the Application-to-Network Interface (ANI). Thecommunication interface between the Regional/Access Network and a NSP orPNSP is defined as the Network-to-Network Interface (NNI) as discussedabove with respect to the Regional/Access Interface. Through thisframework infrastructure, the ASP, NSP, and/or PNSP can use the DSLNetwork bandwidth and QoS management capabilities to create theirbandwidth and QoS “aware” applications. To enable the communication andservice creation, a DSL Service API may be defined as a part of theRegional/Access Application Framework Infrastructure. This API may be areference procedural implementation of the ANI and NNI.

Any suitable communication interface between the application frameworkand the BRAS and ACS may be utilized and, therefore, will not bediscussed in detail herein. An interface may be used at these points andmay be defined as part of the network element requirements. The use ofCommon Open Policy Service (COPS) is an example standard interface thatmay be implemented at these points to push changes into the ACS andBRAS.

6.4.1 Framework Infrastructure Element Functional Description

This section describes the main functions of each element of theApplication Framework Infrastructure as illustrated in FIG. 13, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

ANI Protocol Handler

The ANI Protocol Handler takes a request message from the ASPapplication, passes the request to the DSL Service Manager, waits forthe response from the DSL Service Manager, and sends the responsemessage back to the ASP that requests the service. The protocol used inthis prototype is the Application-to-Network Interface defined in thisproposal.

NNI Protocol Handler

The NNI Protocol Handler takes a request message from the NSP/PNSPapplication, passes the request to the DSL Service Manager, waits forthe response from the DSL Service Manager, and sends the responsemessage back to the NSP/PNSP that requests the service. The protocolused in this prototype is the Network-to-Network Interface defined inthis proposal.

UNI Protocol Handler

The UNI Protocol Handler passes the bandwidth and QoS related parametersvia the ACS to a Routing Gateway associated with a subscriber. Becausethe Routing Gateway obtains its provisioning parameters from the ACSwith a soon to be industry standard interface (WAN-Side DSLConfiguration specification), this same interface may be used tocommunicate bandwidth and QoS information to the RG.

DSL Service Manager

The DSL Service Manager behaves as a service broker that provides one ormore of the following functions: allows ASP/NSP/PNSP to set and querybandwidth and QoS data associated with a PPP session, and to create,change, and delete application flow control record associated with eachindividual application; interacts with BRAS to pass bandwidth and QoSrelated data and policies for prioritizing, shaping, and policingsubscriber's traffic flow either associated with a PPP session or anindividual application flow; and/or communicates with ACS to passbandwidth and QoS related data and polices to a specified Routinggateway working together with BRAS for prioritizing, shaping, andpolicing the subscriber's traffic flow at the access network.

DSL Session Data Store

This is the Master Database maintaining the DSL data model described insection 4.3. It stores all the bandwidth and QoS related data andpolicies that can be queried, modified, created, and deleted by theASP/NSP/PNSP through the ANI/NNI interface. The following records aremaintained in the DSL Session Data Store in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention: a DSL Line Record; an NSP PPPSession Record; a Personal NSP PPP Session Record; an ASP PPP SessionRecord; and/or an application Flow Control Record.

This master copy is replicated in the BRAS and ACS network elements withappropriate data records. The BRAS copy of the data may include thefollowing records in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention: an NSP PPP Session Record; a personal NSP PPP Session Record;an ASP PPP Session Record; and/or an Application Flow Control Record.

The ACS network element may include a replica of the following recordsin accordance with some embodiments of the present invention: an NSP PPPSession Record; a personal NSP PPP Session Record; an ASP PPP SessionRecord; and/or an Application Flow Control Record.

DSL Service API

This service creation API is used by the ASP/NSP for creating theirbandwidth and QoS “aware” applications. This API directly maps theANI/NNI protocol defined in this proposal into procedures, methods,and/or other software embodiments, for example, to facilitateapplication programming.

Provisioning Interface

This is a GUI based interface to allow the DSL Service Provider toprovision the bandwidth and QoS settings for each individual subscriberbased on subscriber telephone number, and provision the ASP/NSP thathave a business arrangement with the DSL service provider. The datamodel for support of the provisioning has been defined herein.

6.4.2 DSL Service Messaging Flow

This section provides several service scenarios to demonstrate how themessaging interface may be used by an ASP application in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention.

Service Provider Authentication Scenario Messaging Flow

FIG. 14 illustrates the messaging flow for the applicationauthentication scenario in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

(1) EstablishServiceSessionRequest (SP_ID, SP_Credentials)

This message is sent from the ASP/NSP to the DSLNetwork as a request forestablishing a communication session. The ASP/NSP needs to beauthenticated by the Regional/Access Network before any network servicecan be provided.

Processing Steps:

-   a) ANI/NNI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes    the request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager finds the corresponding Service Provider    Record by querying DSL Session Data Store based on the SP_ID-   c) DSL Service Manager validates the SP_Credentials. A result of    authentication is sent back to the ASP/NSP via ANI/NNI Protocol    Handler.    -   If the authentication is passed, a valid Authorization code is        sent back. Otherwise, an invalid Authorization code is returned.

(2) EstablishServiceSessionResponse (Authorization, Return_Code)

-   -   This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to ASP/NSP as        a response for the service session establishment request.

(3) TerminateServiceSessionRequest (SP_ID, Authorization)

-   This message is sent from the ASP/NSP to the DSL Network as a    request for terminating the communication session.-   a) ANI/NNI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes    the request to DSL Service Manager.-   b) DSL Service Manager finds the corresponding communication    session, terminates the session, and release all the session related    resources.-   c) DSL Service manager sends a result back to the ASP/NSP via    ANI/NNI Protocol Handler.

(4) TerminateServiceSessionResponse (SP_ID, Return_Code)

-   This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to ASP/NSP as a    response for the service session termination request.

Application Level Bandwidth and QoS Query Scenario Messaging Flow

FIG. 15 illustrates the messaging flow for the application levelbandwidth and QoS query scenario in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention.

(1) QueryAppFlowControlRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier)

This message is sent from the ASP to the DSLNetwork as a request forinquiring the bandwidth and QoS information associated with thespecified DSL line.

Processing Steps:

-   a) ANI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes the    request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager finds the corresponding DSL Line Record, ASP    PPP Session Record, and Application Flow Record(s) to collect the    requested information.-   c) DSL Service Manager sends the collected bandwidth and QoS info    back to the ASP via ANI Protocol Handler.

(2) QueryAppFlowControlResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Flow_Classifier,Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth, Return_Code)

This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to ASP as a responsefor inquiring the bandwidth and QoS info request.

Application Level Bandwidth and QoS Modification Scenario Messaging Flow

FIG. 16 illustrates the messaging flow for the application levelbandwidth and QoS query modification scenario in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

(1) ChangeAppFlowControlRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier, Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the ASP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for changing the bandwidth and QoS data associated with thespecified DSL line.

Processing Steps:

-   a) ANI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes the    request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager validates the authorization code based on    corresponding Service Provider record, finds the corresponding DSL    Line Record, ASP PPP Session Record, and Application Flow Record(s)    to set the bandwidth and QoS data as requested by the ASP.-   c) DSL Service Manager communicates with BRAS Adapter for passing    related bandwidth and QoS data to BRAS.-   d) BRAS Adapter communicates with BRAS for setting the data in BRAS    own data repository.-   e) DSL Service Manager notifies RG (via ACS) of new bandwidth and    QoS info becoming available by sending the message of    UpdateAppFlowControlInfo(DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID, Flow_Classifier,    Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth) through UNI Protocol Handler.-   f) UNI Protocol Handler passes the new bandwidth and QoS data to a    specified RG via ACS.-   g) ACS sends a response message back to UNI Protocol Handler to    confirm the data is received.-   h) UNI Protocol Handler sends the message    UpdateAppFlowControlAck(DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID) back to DSL Service    Manager as a response.-   i) DSL Service Manager sends the response message back to ASP via    ANI Protocol Handler.-   j) ACS notifies the specified RG of the availability of new    bandwidth/QoS data via WAN-Side DSL Config Interface.-   k) The specified RG receives notification and downloads the new data    from ACS.

(2) ChangeAppFlowControlResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to ASP as a responsefor setting the bandwidth and QoS request.

Application Flow Control Record Creation Scenario Messaging Flow

FIG. 17 illustrates the messaging flow for the application flow controlrecord creation scenario in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

(1) CreateAppFlowControlRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Flow_Classifier, Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the ASP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for creating an Application Flow Control Record for a specifiedsubscriber.

Processing Steps:

-   a) ANI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes the    request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager validates the authorization code based on    corresponding Service Provider record, finds the corresponding DSL    Line Record, ASP PPP Session Record, and then creates and sets an    Application Flow Control Record as requested by the ASP.-   c) DSL Service Manager communicates with BRAS Adapter for passing    related bandwidth and QoS data to BRAS.-   d) BRAS Adapter communicates with BRAS for setting the data in BRAS    own data repository.-   e) DSL Service Manager notifies RG of new bandwidth and QoS becoming    available by sending the message of    UpdateAppFlowControlInfo(DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID, Flow_Classifier,    Flow_Priority, Flow_Bandwidth) via UNI Protocol Handler.-   f) UNI Protocol Handler passes the new bandwidth and QoS data to a    specified RG via ACS.-   g) ACS sends a response message back to UNI Protocol Handler to    confirm the data is received.-   h) UNI Protocol Handler sends the message    UpdateAppFlowControlAck(DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID) back to DSL Service    Manager as a response.-   i) DSL Service Manager sends the response message back to ASP via    ANI Protocol Handler.-   j) ACS notifies the specified RG of the availability of new    bandwidth/QoS data via WAN-Side DSL Config Interface.-   k) The specified RG receives notification and downloads the new data    from ACS.

(2) CreateAppFlowControlResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from DSL Network to ASP as a response for creatingthe application flow control record request.

Application Flow Control Record Deletion Scenario Messaging Flow

FIG. 18 illustrates the messaging flow for the application flow controlrecord deletion scenario in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

(1) DeleteAppFlowControlRecordRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID,SP_ID, Flow_Classifier)

This message is sent from the ASP to the DSLNetwork as a request fordeleting an Application Flow Control Record for a specified application.

Processing Steps:

-   a) ANI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes the    request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager finds the corresponding DSL Line Record and    associated the ASP PPP Session Record. Delete the App Flow Control    Record based on the Flow_Classifier.-   c) DSL Service Manager sends a response back to ASP as a    confirmation.

(2) DeleteAppFlowControlRecordResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to ASP as a responsefor deletion of App Flow Control Record request.

NSP PPP Session Level Bandwidth and QoS Modification Scenario MessagingFlow

FIG. 19 illustrates the messaging flow for the PPP session levelbandwidth and QoS modification scenario in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

(1) ChangeSessionBandwidthRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,Session_Classifier, Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth)

This message is sent from the NSP to the Regional/Access Network as arequest for changing the PPP session level of bandwidth and QoS dataassociated with the specified DSL line.

Processing Steps:

-   a) NNI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes the    request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager validates the authorization code based on the    corresponding Service Provider record, finds the corresponding DSL    Line Record, and the NSP/PNSP PPP Session Record to set the    bandwidth and QoS data as requested by the NSP.-   c) DSL Service Manager communicates with BRAS Adapter for passing    the bandwidth and QoS data to BRAS.-   d) BRAS Adapter communicates with BRAS for setting the data in BRAS    own data repository.-   e) DSL Service Manager notifies RG of new bandwidth and QoS being    available by sending a notification to NNI Protocol Handler.-   f) NNI Protocol Handler passes the new bandwidth and QoS data    associated with a specified RG to ACS by sending the following    message to ACS. UpdateSessionBandwidthinfo(DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID,    Session_Classifier, Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth),-   g) ACS sends a response message back to NNI Protocol Handler to    confirm the data is received by sending the following message.    UpdateSessionBandwidthAck(DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)-   h) UNI Protocol Handler passes the acknowledgement back to DSL    Service Manager as a response.-   i) DSL Service Manager sends the following response message back to    NSP via NNI Protocol Handler.    ChangeSessionBandwidthResponse(DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)-   j) ACS notifies the specified RG of the availability of new    bandwidth/QoS data via WAN-Side DSL Config Interface.-   k) The specified RG receives notification and downloads the new    bandwidth and QoS data from ACS.

(2) ChangeSessionBandwidthResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Return_Code)

This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to NSP as a responsefor changing the PPP level of the bandwidth and QoS request.

ASP/PPP Session Level Bandwidth and QoS Query Scenario Messaging Flow

FIG. 20 illustrates the messaging flow for the PPP session levelbandwidth and QoS query scenario in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention.

(1) QuerySessionBandwidthRequest (Authorization, DSL_Line_ID, SP_ID)

This message is sent from the ASP/NSP to the Regional/Access Network asa request for inquiring the bandwidth and QoS information associatedwith the specified DSL line.

Processing Steps:

-   a) ANI/NNI Protocol Handler receives the request message and passes    the request to DSL Service Manager-   b) DSL Service Manager finds the corresponding DSL Line Record and    the ASP/NSP PPP Session Record to collect the requested information.-   c) DSL Service Manager sends the collected bandwidth and QoS info at    PPP session level back to the ASP/NSP via ANI/NNI Protocol Handler.

(2) QuerySessionBandwidtbResponse (DSL_Line_ID, Session_Classifier,Session_Priority, Session_Bandwidth, Return_Code)

-   -   This message is sent from Regional/Access Network to ASP/NSP as        a response for inquiring the bandwidth and QoS info request.

7. FUTURE CAPABILITIES OF THE APPLICATION FRAMEWORK

Exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described above withrespect to an Application Framework comprising a reference data modeland an interface specification defined for specific transport flowsrelated to QoS and bandwidth capabilities. This Application Frameworkmay be expanded, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention to support other services that link network services,telecommunications information technology, and customers including, forexample: registration—enables the ASP to register services/applicationswith the Regional/Access Network; discovery—enables the Subscriber todiscover services/applications within the Regional/Access Network;subscription—enables the ASP to manage and maintain subscriber accounts;management—for validation of subscribers and relatedservices/applications; session—enables the xSP to manage and maintainsession establishment, Management: session control, and session teardownfor subscriber access to services/applications; authentication—enablesthe xSP to validate the user/subscriber for network access andservices/applications access—who are you?; authorization—enables the xSPto validate the user/subscriber for network access andservices/applications access—what permissions do you have?;profile—enables the xSP to manage and maintain user/subscriber profiledata; identify—enables the xSP to manage and maintain user preferences,profiles, identity data; presence—enables the xSP to know and maintainawareness of the current existence of the subscriber;notification—enables the xSP to notify the subscriber of relatedservices/applications information; and/or billing—enables the xSP tocapture subscriber/user billing data for network usage andservices/applications usage for mediating a common billing record. Theseother capabilities may provide a host of centralized software servicessupporting a distributed network computing environment linkingusers/subscribers to their desired services and applications.

8. EXAMPLE USE SCENARIO—TURBO BUTTON

A source of potential frustration for users of data services is thatdata rates supported by the network (e.g., 1.5 Mb/s downstream and 256Kb/s upstream) are often not properly matched with applicationrequirements. Even with the higher speeds afforded with DSL access,users of many applications (e.g., content download such as large MSOffice service packs or movie trailers, and on-line gaming) may beinterested in using a service that would provide an even higher accessspeed at the times they need it most by invoking a “Turbo Button”service. The higher access speed limit is achieved via a service profilechange that eliminates or lessens artificially imposed limits on theachievable speed in the user's PPP session. This section shows how theDSL Application Framework can support such a service, in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention, starting with the referencemodel shown in FIG. 21.

Many implementations of a Turbo Button service are possible inaccordance with various embodiments of the present invention. For thepurposes of this section, we will work with a fairly simpleimplementation in which the service is provisioned by an NSP calledmyNSP.com. The user requests the turbo button service at the communityNSP's website during a browsing session at normal speed. Note that otherordering mechanisms are possible including mechanisms that are separatefrom the DSL session, e.g., using a telephone or a mass-distributed CD.

As mentioned above in certain embodiments of the present invention, theservice is implemented via provisioning rather than by using real-timesignaling. Under this assumption, a provisioning cycle is initiatedafter the user invokes the service and the provisioning completes beforethe effect is seen. Another result of this assumption is that the effectof the user's service invocation is permanent, i.e., once turbo speed inplace, it lasts until the user cancels the service and anotherprovisioning cycle occurs to reinstate the default service parameters.Real-time signaling may be needed to support a service that supportson-demand, brief turbo sessions on an as needed basis.

Once the user requests the turbo service, the NSP queries theRegional/Access network to find out what turbo options can be presentedto the user. The NSP may map the available upgrades to marketingcategories (e.g., fast, faster, wickedly fast). The user selects one ofthe options, and the NSP requests the profile from the Regional/Accessnetwork that supports the requested speed. The Regional/Access networkin turn pushes new policy (e.g. classifiers, rate limiters, priority)into the user's RG that will support the higher speed. It is importantto note that the service is still “Best Effort,” i.e., there is noassumption of a QoS guarantee at this time. A version of turbo buttonservice with QoS support may be implemented in accordance with otherembodiments of the present invention.

We will assume that the NSP authenticates its own users for servicessuch as Turbo Button. A centralized authentication service (as well asother ancillary services such as billing and presence functionality)could be implemented in the Regional/Access network on behalf of NSPsand ASPs in accordance with additional embodiments of the presentinvention. In a typical business model, the NSP might bill the user forusage of the turbo button service. In turn, the DSL network providerwould bill the NSP for carrying traffic across the Regional/Accessnetwork at turbo speeds.

Turbo Button Scenario Description

FIG. 22 illustrates an example of the sequence of events occurring withusing the Turbo Button Service to access sites via a network serviceprovider called “myNSP.com.” For simplicity of illustration, the detailsof the Regional/Access network (DSL Service Manager, UNI and ANIprotocol handlers, ACS, BRAS, etc.) are not shown—the expanded flowswere shown in Section 6.4. The step numbers shown in the figurecorrespond with the list provided below.

-   1. The user clicks an advertisement to reach the NSP's Turbo Button    subscription menu.-   2. The NSP host authenticates itself with the Regional/Access    network in order to be able to access the customer profile it wants    to update.-   3. Once authenticated, the NSP host then queries the Regional/Access    network for available options for the users access session    connection. It uses the response to this query to put together a set    of options for presentation to the customer.-   4. The user selects one of the options.-   5. The NSP requests the Regional/Access network to change the    session bandwidth associated with the access session. A notification    may be sent to the user indicating that the turbo button    provisioning is under way and that turbo speed will be available    later that day (for example).-   6. Using Update Session Bandwidth messaging, the Regional/Access    network pushes new policy to the RG that will support the turbo    speed.-   7. Once the new policy is in place, the user is able to enjoy turbo    speed access to sites served by the NSP. Note that all users    connected to the access session (i.e., other PC users on the    household LAN) would also enjoy the benefits of the turbo button    service.-   8. Later, the user decides to cancel turbo button service.-   9. Steps 5 and 6 are repeated with the profile and policy put in    place being those needed for default access session speeds.-   10. The network has returned to its previous state and the user's    PPP session is no longer turbo'd.

9. EXAMPLE USE SCENARIO—VIDEO CONFERENCING

This section illustrates how the DSL Application Framework can support avideoconference service in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention. The videoconferencing model used is a SIP-drivenservice implemented by an ASP with a centralized control/mixingconference server. This is the tightly coupled model being developed byan IETF Sipping WG design team that uses four logical entities: focus,conference state notification service, conference policy server element,and stream mixers. There are several ways that these entities can bespread over the available network segments. For example, the ASP and theRegional/Access network can each implement a subset of the entities; forexample, the ASP can implement the stream mixing while the rest of thelogical entities are implemented in the Regional/Access network. Such adivision may be feasible from a technical perspective, but theadditional exposed interfaces may require standardization or bilateralagreement. There might not be much of a business case for such a modelbecause there is little incentive for either the ASP or Regional/Accessnetwork to give up part of the service offering.

-   -   Furthermore, all of the entities can be implemented in the        regional/Access network. This option offers some simplicity from        the Regional/Access network provider's perspective because no        ASP is involved. This would probably balanced, however, by the        network provider's need to decouple the videoconference service        offering from the general DSL networking aspects.

Finally, the ASP can implement all of the logical entities while theRegional/Access network provider concentrates on the transport issues.This approach is adopted for the rest of this section—the ASP handlesall of the mixing as well as the application layer control. A referencediagram for the service with three users is shown in FIG. 23.

From the user's perspective, the videoconferencing service has thefollowing capabilities in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention: Creation/Activation: the user can interact with theASP and either request a reserved conference (without pre-designatedparticipants) or activate a previously reserved conference; Termination:the conference ends at a pre-designated time; Adding Participants: Allusers are designated in advance; Dropping Parties: Although individualparties may stop participation in the conference, the resources in thenetwork supporting their connections remain in place; and/or StreamMixing: Basic audio and video mixing are provided. Each participantreceives all of the other participants' audio and receives video fromthe participant with the loudest current audio.

Assumptions regarding the service are as follows: the ASP that offersthe videoconference service will host the MCU; the ASP's MCU willsupport the ASP's subscribers in all ASP networks for which that ASP isparticipating; videoconference client software compatible with an ASP'svideoconference service is resident on all participant PCs; users thatare not subscribed to the ASP's videoconference service will not besupported; DHCP leases do not expire; SIP Application Level Gateway(ALG) functions for handling NAT traversal are provided in the RG; theASP providing the videoconference service maintains a common addressrepository or locator for its subscribers. ASP's may be unwilling toshare or store their subscriber information in a network database;mechanisms are in place to support application level communicationbetween two ASP networks (see the dotted line shown); the ALG functionsin the RG use DiffServ Code Points (DSCP) from the voice and videostreams and the port information pushed to it through the ACS profile tomap audio and video flows to ports that are known to the BRAS forreclassification. A simpler approach may be to classify packets comingfrom the videoconference client based on packet type and protocol ID butthat would mean the audio and video RTP streams could not bedistinguished by the classifier and would have to share the samepriority; the DSCPs used by the videoconference clients arestandardized; and/or by its nature RTP is a unidirectional stream, butRTCP is bi-directional. Each pair of RTP and RTCP UDP streams defines achannel. To simplify the presentation, only one direction of the RTPstream is shown for audio and data and only one control stream is shown.Typical SIP and H.323 videoconference implementations may requireadditional data and control streams to complete fully bi-directionaldata flows for all participants.

At least two workable business models can support this videoconferencingservice. In the simplest model, the videoconference ASP arranges for allpotential conference participants to have the necessary policies inplace to support the service. Once this infrastructure is provisioned,any subset of the participants can hold a videoconference at any time. Aslightly more complex model has some advantages for demonstrationpurposes—in this model, the videoconference ASP makes the necessarychanges needed in the network to support a particular videoconference(and only the participants for that conference receive upgraded profilesto support their session). This model, which is used in this section,does not require that the policy be in place at all times, but mayrequire a window (perhaps 24 hours) during which the provisioningchanges are made.

A number of billing models are possible. In some embodiments, the ASPbills (flat rate, usage, etc.) videoconference subscribers for theirservice. The Regional/Access network provider bills the ASP for hostingthe service on the ASP network and for the usage of the Regional/Accessnetwork. Note that additional opportunities for the business model arepossible for offering centralized billing, authentication, and presencecapabilities to videoconference ASPs.

The static provisioning model imposes some restrictions onvideoconferencing service models. Reservations are made well in advanceto allow the flow-through provisioning to occur before the start of theconference. The reservation window thus needs to close before the startof the conference, for example 24 hours prior. No real-time adjustmentof the schedule (such as early teardown because the participantsfinished early) is possible. The only way to update the participant listis for the user to request a replacement conference before thereservation window closes.

Despite the use of the static provisioning model, the ability to map aparticular conference's flows to a classifier still makes it possible tooffer reasonable service features. The user may be able to set upmultiple conference calls with different sets of people and withdifferent QoS and bandwidth requirements (for example, a reduced framerate may be desired for a conference a day after the conference in thisexample because several BRI users will be on the call). Without themapping between the flows and the classifier, the user may have beenable to have only one outstanding conference request. In addition, theuser may be able to modify the arrangements for a particular conference(e.g., if the participant roster or start/end times change) providedthat the reservation window (24 hour notice) has not closed.

A goal of this section is to demonstrate that the Framework andInterface and Data Model are sufficient to support this basicvideoconference service. After discussing the individual streams neededfor videoconferencing, flows for setting up and tearing downvideoconferencing flows in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention are presented. At the end of this section, the networkmodel is expanded to include the DSL network's entities and furtherexercise the data model and messages that have been defined.

Videoconferencing Scenario Descriptions

The following sequence of events may occur in the process of registeringfor the ASP videoconference service, reserving a particular conference,and tearing it down once the conference is over. Assume that three usersA, B, and C will be involved in the videoconference and that A will bethe originator. For simplicity, the details of the Regional/Accessnetwork (DSL Service Manager, UNI and ANI protocol handlers, ACS, BRAS,etc.) are not shown—the expanded flows have been shown in Section 6.4.The step numbers shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 correspond with the listprovided below:

-   -   1. Assume that Users A, B, and C already have established PPP        sessions between their RG's and the DSL network provider.    -   2. On the videoconference ASP website, User A registers to be        able to set up videoconferences by setting up their user        profile, billing options, etc.    -   3. User A decides to hold a videoconference with Users B and C        on Tuesday 3:00-4:00 and arranges this with the videoconference        ASP.    -   4. The ASP establishes a service sessions with the        Regional/Access network and is authenticated.    -   5. The ASP sends application flow control requests to the        Regional/Access network requesting changes to support the        videoconference.    -   6. The Regional/Access network pushes new application flow        policies to the BRAS, ACS, and RG's A, B, and C that are        specific to the videoconference application. The videoconference        stream facilities are now available.    -   7. The videoconference starts at 3:00 on Tuesday (note that the        flow has now moved). Inside the control streams, the        videoconference ASP uses SIP to establish the necessary        conference legs to users A, B, and C. The streams from the users        are placed appropriately in the queues by the classifiers, are        mixed by the videoconference ASP, and appropriately mixed        streams are distributed to the participants.    -   8. At 4:00 on Tuesday, the conference is scheduled to end. The        videoconference ASP releases its internal resources for the        mixers and conference control, sends SIP BYE messages through        the control stream to clear the SIP dialogs with the users, and        sends a billing record so that the appropriate charging takes        place.    -   9. The videoconference ASP establishes a service session with        the DSL network (if necessary) and is authenticated.    -   10. The videoconference ASP requests deletion of the application        flow control records that supported the videoconference.        The Regional/Access network deletes the policy for the bandwidth        and QoS at the BRAS, ACS, and RG's for users A, B, and C. The        network has now been returned to its default state.

Flow Classification for Video Conferencing

The videoconference service may require three streams to carry audio,video, and signaling/control as shown in FIGS. 24-27. The flows referredto using a “+” sign in FIG. 27 may be set up dynamically at the VCclient and the DSCP may be assigned for the audio and video streams. TheALG/NAT maps of the 10.X.X.X ports to the corresponding IP address andports for audio and video specified in the ACS profile based on the DSCPset by the VC client. This may ensure that the RG, BRAS and ASPvideoconference MCU maintain consistent port information with regard tothe various flows.

The signaling/control stream is used at the application layer forpurposes, such as floor control and other needs, that are transparent tothe Regional/Access network provider. Assume that audio and controlpackets need to travel with high priority and thus are placed into theExpedited Forwarding queue at the RG. Video packets have medium priorityand hence will be placed into the Assured Forwarding queue at the RG.The videoconference service does not cause the user to emit any lowpriority packets that we are aware of; thus, the RG will not need toplace any packets into the Best Effort queue.

A goal is to demonstrate that it is possible for the ASP to push packetclassifier information into the DSL network at conference reservationtime so as to configure the DSL network for proper placement of packetsfrom the three streams into the appropriate queues as mentioned above.At the time that a videoconference is reserved (to occur in this case3:00-4:00 the next day), the user needs to get a conferenceidentifier/PIN from the videoconference ASP. The user will use thisconference identifier to get into the correct conference the next day,and will give the conference id to the other participants for the samepurpose. For the purposes of this section, assume that this conferenceidentifier does not need to show up in the data model because it isstrictly between the users and the ASP and somehow transferredtransparently to the DSL network provider.

The ASP needs to set up bandwidth and priority for the three streams(control, video, and audio) that are needed between each user and theASP using a Create Application Flow Control Request message. One benefitof looking at videoconference as a service example is to betterunderstand how the various flows would be set up and managed throughNATs and firewalls and still have those flows appropriately classifiedthroughout. Many protocols establish connections on well-known portsthat spawn data flows on ephemeral ports (i.e., dynamically spawned andassigned to a given multimedia call after the initial handshakes). Theproblem of firewall and NAT traversal is a complex one due, in part, tothe large number of different scenarios and the multitude of differentsolutions to solve them.

For this example, it is assumed that the RG has an ALG function for thesupport of SIP. Further it is assumed that there is a “trusted”relationship between the ASP and the Regional/Access network and the useof DSCP markings of packets can be used as part of the classificationprocess.

Referring to FIG. 24, information that is used for setting up andclassifying the flows required for a videoconference in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention is illustrated. First, duringthe initial setup, user A registers all participants and specifies thestart time and end times, etc. The ASP reserves IP addresses for theconference on its platform and updates each participant's RG by issuinga createAppFlowReq request to the Regional access network. The BRAS usesthe IP addresses specified by ASP₁ for reclassifying traffic to ASP₁ andwill use the IP of the RG and the DSCP for reclassifying traffic enroute to the videoconference client. The profile that gets pushed toeach participant will contain ASP₁'s IP addresses for control, audio,and video flows. When the start time for the videoconference approaches,each participant will activate their videoconference client on his orher PC and login to the reserved conference.

Once ASP₁ receives the control message for call setup, it can refer toits table of reserved addresses to be used for the conference.Capability set negotiation occurs at this time (e.g., could be includedin SDP component). The RG's ALG/NAT engine uses the DSCP and informationfrom the ACS profile to determine which port it should assign to the RTPflows from the videoconference client. This may ensure consistency forthe port information stored in the BRAS for reclassification. ASP₁, theBRAS, and the RG should now know all addresses, priorities and shapinginformation. The videoconference client's RTP streams can begin pushingaudio and video.

10. EXAMPLE USE SCENARIO—GAMING

This section illustrates how the DSL Application Framework can support agaming service in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. Though there are many different models for game play anddelivery, this section discusses a particular class of games known as“massively multi-player interactive” games. Such games are characterizedby substantial numbers of players (greater than 10 and up to the 1000s)and real time or near real-time interactions. Such games placesignificant demands on network and game server infrastructures. Otherclasses of games that are not discussed here include turn based games,single player (turn based or real time interactive), and head to headinteractive games. Though each of these classes represents a significantnumber of games available to users, their network requirements are notnearly as complex as those of multi-player interactive games.

Gaming Service Overview

Two basic topologies are used to support network gaming: point to pointor client server. In client server topology, the player's workstationcommunicates with a central game server to which other players are alsoconnected. In the point to point topology, each player communicatesdirectly with each other player. A refinement of the client servertopology, the hierarchical client server topology, provides thenecessary infrastructure to support true massively multi-playerenvironments. These topologies are depicted in FIG. 28.

In the point to point topology, each gaming workstation must transmitits moves and state change information to each other gaming workstation.In addition, each workstation must maintain a consistent andsynchronized image of the game universe for each player. As such thepoint to point topology requires significant computation power in theend user workstation and typically will not scale to supporting morethan a number of users.

In both forms of the client server topology, the workstation and gameserver exchange information that is directly relevant only to a specificplayer. The client workstation is responsible for such tasks as managinguser interactions, rendering, and audio feedback, while the server isresponsible for maintaining a consistent view of the game universe andcommunicating changes to the view to player workstations. The differencebetween the two topologies is one of segmentation. In the hierarchicaltopology, a server is only responsible for maintaining the state of aportion of the universe. If a player connected to a particular server isinteracting with a portion of the universe outside the scope of theirimmediate server, that server must coordinate with other servers in thenetwork. This partitioning provides significantly more scalability thana simple client server topology.

In addition to maintaining game universe state at communicating statechanges to players, a gaming service may provide other auxiliaryfunctions including the following: Session Management: manages activeplayer lists, supports ability to invite participants to join a game;presence and availability management: supports the ability of players tolocate and determine if opponents are available for play;authentication: verify player identities and validate that players areusing correctly licensed software on their workstation; interactive chatand bulletin board: provides a forum for discussion of gaming topics.Can also be used during game play to allow for intra-team communication;and/or content downloads: provides software update and new game deliveryservices.

Basic game server functionality and auxiliary functions represent agaming service that may be offered in an ASP model in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention. The game server and serversfor auxiliary functions are connected to the ASP network. Clientworkstations access a game server or auxiliary function server throughtheir ASP network connection. From the perspective of the DSL network,whether a gaming service implements a client/server or hierarchicalclient/server topology is not important. The DSL network is onlyinvolved in the transport of traffic between one or more gameworkstations and the game server to which they are connected. Thisservice model is show in FIG. 29.

Traffic and Flow Characterization

In a client/server multiplayer gaming service, the game server andplayer workstation communicate state change and play event informationin real time. The workstation informs the server of player triggeredevents including the following: Player moves; Player takes a shot;Player changes rooms; and/or Player picks up an object.

In a real-time game, the server reconciles these play event messages asthey are received from each workstation or peer server. It thencommunicates state change information to each client workstation. Thesestate change messages contain only information relevant to theparticular player—only information about objects currently visible tothe player is communicated. Examples of this information include:movement of other objects within the player's current view; hits made bythe player; damage incurred by the player; death of the player or otherplayers; and/or communication from the server or other players.Unfortunately, there does not appear to be a standard protocol for suchcommunications; each gaming system seems to define its own methods ofcommunication. The basic characteristics, however, seem to be similar.

While communication from the workstation to the server is typicallyevent driven, server to workstation communication is often continuous.Servers often send state change messages in frames at a defined rate—10,20, 30 frames per second. Frames tend to be significantly larger thanvoice or video frames. The total time required to send a user event,reconcile its impact on the game universe, and communicate state changeback to the workstation may become the limiting factor in playerreaction time. The longer the total time, the less reactive a player canbe and the less interactive the gaming experience may become.

Reconciliation time is driven by server capacity and load. Messagedelivery times are driven by network limitations. For many games, atotal round trip “ping” time of 200-350 ms is considered acceptablewhile 100 ms is considered exceptional. Anything greater than 500 ms maybecome very obvious to the player and is perceived as sluggishness. Aslatency increases it becomes more likely that players do not share aconsistent view of the universe.

In summary, game play related traffic can be characterized as follows:steady frame rate; large frame size (relative to voice or video); and/orlatency sensitive Auxiliary services generally do not share thesecharacteristics. They typically are similar or identical to traditionalInternet Web based services and do not suffer from significant impactsdue to latency.

The bandwidth requirement for play related traffic is generally lowerthan for video services, but the latency sensitivity of game playtraffic typically necessitates better than best-effort treatment. Flowsrelated to game play may be placed in an assured forwarding queue at aminimum. Auxiliary services may be handled on a best effort basis. Playrelated traffic and auxiliary service traffic are typically carried indifferent flows.

Traffic within a game play flow may be further differentiated inaccordance with additional embodiments of the present invention. Forexample, within the context of a particular game certain events may betreated with higher priority than others. This may be supported byallowing the application to use and set multiple diffserv code-points.Such use, however, may only be permitted if there is a trustedrelationship between the ASP gaming host and the transport network.

Example Scenario Description

The call flow for gaming is similar to Turbo button. The game providerneeds to negotiate bandwidth profiles between the game server and theplayer workstation for the purposes of game play traffic. The steps inthis scenario are illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention, as follows:

-   -   1. Subscriber establishes PPP session between RG and DSL network        provider.    -   2. Subscriber accesses ASP gaming providers web site and        registers for game play.    -   3. ASP gaming provider queries subscriber bandwidth profile and        determines current profile to be insufficient for game play.    -   4. ASP creates application bandwidth/QOS profile at Regional        Access Network.    -   5. ASP acknowledges subscription.    -   6. Regional access network pushes new flow qualifier and        bandwidth info for game service to routing gateway.    -   7. Subscriber joins game using QOS enabled session.

11. ALLOCATION OF DIFFERENT QUALITY OF SERVICE/BANDWIDTH TO SUBSCRIBERSHAVING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE TO INTERACTIVE GAMING

The invention is described herein with reference to flowchart and/orblock diagram illustrations of methods, systems, and computer programproducts in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the invention. Itwill be understood that each block of the flowchart and/or block diagramillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart and/or blockdiagram illustrations, may be implemented by computer programinstructions and/or hardware operations. These computer programinstructions may be provided to a processor of a general purposecomputer, a special purpose computer, or other programmable dataprocessing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions,which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functionsspecified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computerusable or computer-readable memory that may direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer usable orcomputer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture includinginstructions that implement the function specified in the flowchartand/or block diagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer orother programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series ofoperational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmableapparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that theinstructions that execute on the computer or other programmableapparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in theflowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowcharts illustrate architectures, functionalities, and operationsof embodiments of systems, methods, and computer program products forallocating different qualities of service and/or bandwidth to differentsubscribers based on the different subscription levels associated withthe different subscribers. In this regard, each block of the flowchartscan represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which can compriseone or more executable instructions for implementing the specifiedlogical function(s). In some embodiments according the invention, thefunction(s) noted in the blocks may occur in the order shown or inanother order. For example, two blocks shown in succession in FIGS. 32and 33 may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently or theblocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending on thefunctionality involved.

Some embodiments according to the invention can provide Quality ofService (QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation for different subscribers toan interactive game via a Regional/Access Network (RAN) between aplurality of participants in the game. The RAN can provide end-to-endtransport between a Gaming Application Service Provider (GASP) and aCustomer Premises Network (CPN), via which the subscriber can access theGASP using, for example, a personal computer or gaming console. The CPNfurther includes a Routing Gateway (RG) through which the subscriberslocated at each of the CPNs access the RAN. The Quality of Service (QoS)and/or bandwidth allocation can be provided by determining differentlevels of subscription service for different subscribers to theinteractive game. Different QoS and/or bandwidth allocations can beprovided to different gaming traffic flows associated with the differentsubscribers to the game based on the different levels of subscriptionservice of the different subscribers.

For example, in some embodiments according to the invention, somesubscribers may have a greater subscription level of service than othersubscribers to the game. The subscribers having the greater subscriptionlevel of service can, therefore, be allocated a higher QoS and/or amountof bandwidth for the gaming traffic flow associated with playing thegame. A higher QoS and/or amount of bandwidth may allow the subscriberto experience more interactive gaming where latency between a player'saction and a view that reflects action being provided to the subscribermay be perceived as normal.

Referring again to FIGS. 29 and 31, different subscribers (or users ofthe game) can subscribe to an interactive game (i.e. game) offered by aGaming Application Service Provider (GASP). It will be understood thatin embodiments according to the present invention, each of thesubscribers can have an associated subscription level which can entitlethe respective subscriber to corresponding resources for gaming trafficflow associated with a game. In particular, the DSL access network mayprovide resources that are applied to traffic flow generated as thesubscribers interact with the game provided by the GASP. A subscribercan have a different subscription level which entitles the respectivedata flow associated with the subscriber's use of the game to beprocessed differently than other gaming traffic flows associated withother subscribers. For example, in some embodiments according to theinvention, a gaming traffic flow associated with a first subscriber witha high subscription level is allocated greater resources (such as aquality of service or an amount of bandwidth) than a second subscriberwith a lower subscription level. Accordingly, a subscriber having ahigher subscription level of service can experience a higher performancelevel in using the game than subscribers having a lower subscriptionlevel service. It will be understood that different QoS and/or amount ofbandwidth can be established for processing of gaming traffic flows bythe opening of particular ports used to transfer data between the GASPand the RG.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart that illustrates embodiments according to theinvention. In particular, embodiments according to the invention candetermine different levels of subscription service for differentsubscribers to the interactive game that is conducted between aplurality participants (block 3205). Different Quality of Service and/orbandwidth allocations can be provided to different gaming traffic flowsassociated with different subscribers to the game. The different QoSand/or bandwidth allocations can be based on the different levels of thesubscription service of the different subscribers (block 3210). It willbe understood that the gaming traffic flows associated with thedifferent subscribers can include the transport of data associated withgame play between the subscriber and the game provided by the GASP (andother subscribers to the game). For example, the gaming traffic flow canbe data provided by the GASP to the subscriber, which portrays a view ofthe game for the subscriber. The gaming traffic flow can also includeinput by the subscriber to the game. It will be further understood thatthe allocation of QoS and/or bandwidth can be different for each of thedifferent types of gaming traffic flows. For example, a first quality ofservice QoS and/or bandwidth allocation can be provided for transferringinput from the subscriber's RG to the GASP, whereas, a second quality ofservice and/or bandwidth allocation can be provided for the transfer ofviews from the GASP to the subscriber's RG.

FIGS. 33A and 33B are flow charts that illustrate operations ofembodiments according to the invention. In particular, in someembodiments according to the invention, a session request for game playis received at the RAN from the GASP to establish a communicationsession to which a quality of service and/or bandwidth allocation is tobe made for a subscriber to the interactive game (Block 3305). Forexample, as shown in FIG. 31, in some embodiments according to theinvention, the session request is an EstablishServiceSessionRequestmessage as described above in Section 6.2.1. For example, the messagefor the session request can be sent from the GASP to the RAN as arequest to establish a communication session between the subscriber (viathe associated RG at the respective CPN) and the GASP. This message can,therefore, be used to authenticate or authorize the GASP with the RAN sothat resources (such as the QoS and/or the bandwidth) can be allocatedin response to a request by the GASP. Furthermore, the session can bevalid for a specified lifespan whereupon when the lifespan expires, theGASP may need to resend a similar message to continue or reestablish thecommunication session between the subscriber and the GASP.

A session response is provided from the LAN to the GASP in response tothe session request (Block 3310). The response can authorize the GASP torequest allocation of RAN resources to the subscriber if the GASP isauthorized to allocate those resources as described in association withblock 3305. In some embodiments according to the invention, the sessionresponse is an EstablishServiceSessionResponse message as describedabove in Section 6.2.2. For example, this message can include anauthorization code that indicates what resources the GASP is authorizedto access for gaming traffic flow generated between the subscriber andthe GASP through use of the game.

A gaming traffic flow query is received at the RAN that requests anindication as to what resources are available for allocation to the GASPfor use in processing gaming traffic flow associated with thesubscriber's game play (Block 3315). In some embodiments according tothe invention, the gaming traffic flow query is aQueryAppFlowControlRequest message as described above in Section 6.2.9.For example, the GASP can send this message to the RAN as a request forpriority information to be used in association with the gaming trafficflow for a subscriber.

A gaming traffic flow response is provided from the RAN to the GASPresponsive to the gaming traffic flow query (Block 3320). The gamingtraffic flow response indicates the resources that are available to theGASP for allocation to the subscriber in association processing thegaming traffic flow generated by the subscriber's game play. In someembodiments according to the invention, the gaming traffic flow responseis a QueryAppFlowControlResponse message as described above in Section6.2.10. For example, the gaming traffic flow response can be a messagesent from the RAN to the GASP indicating the resources that can beallocated to the gaming traffic flow generated by the subscriber's gameplay, such as identification of various data queues, such as an assuredforwarding queue and/or an expedited forwarding queue, to be used forprocessing the gaming traffic flow, as well as the priorities associatedtherewith and bandwidth limitations that will be imposed on the gamingtraffic flow.

A gaming traffic flow allocation request is received at the RAN from theGASP (Block 3325). The gaming traffic flow allocation request indicatesthe resources that the RAN is to allocate to the gaming traffic flowassociated with the subscriber's game play. In some embodimentsaccording to the invention, the gaming traffic flow allocation requestcan be a CreateAppFlowControlRecordRequest message as described above inSection 6.2.3. For example, the gaming traffic flow allocation requestcan be a request to the RAN that is used to set up a profile as part ofthe Broadband Remote Access Service (BRAS). Some of the parametersincluded in the request may be a flow classifier that containsparameters used to identify the gaming traffic flow associated with thesubscriber's use of the game. A flow priority indicates the prioritylevel of the game within the communications session between thesubscriber and the GASP. It will be understood that the flow priorityparameter can indicate what treatment data included in the gamingtraffic flow is to receive, including what queue is to be used toprocess the gaming traffic flow, as well as any flow bandwidthparameters that indicate, for example, the maximum bandwidth (bothupstream and downstream) that is to be allocated to the gaming trafficflow.

A gaming traffic flow allocation response is provided from the RAN tothe GASP in response to the gaming traffic flow allocation request(Block 3330). The gaming traffic flow allocation response indicates theresources that have been allocated by the RAN as part of the profile tobe applied to the gaming traffic flow generated by the subscriber's gameplay. In some embodiments according to the invention, the gaming trafficflow allocation response is a CreateAppFlowControlRecordResponse messageas described above in Section 6.2.4. For example, the gaming trafficflow allocation response can be a response from the RAN indicating thatthe gaming traffic flow allocation request has been successfullyaccomplished by the RAN and the GASP.

A gaming traffic flow allocation notice is provided from the RAN to theRouting Gateway (RG) associated with the subscriber requesting that thecommunication session be established (Block 3340). The gaming trafficflow allocation notice indicates to the RG that the resources for thegaming traffic flow have been allocation to the subscriber by the RANfor game play. In some embodiments according to the invention, thegaming traffic flow allocation notice can be an UpdateAppFlowControlInfomessage as described in Section 6.1.3. For example, the gaming trafficflow allocation notice can be a message sent from the RAN to thespecified RG associated with the subscriber as a notification of a QoSand/or bandwidth allocation becoming available for use by thesubscriber. The gaming traffic flow allocation notice can includeparameters such as the flow classifier, the flow priority, and the flowbandwidth discussed above.

A gaming traffic flow resource allocation is received from the RG at theRAN (Block 3345). The gaming traffic flow resource allocation istransmitted responsive to the gaming traffic flow allocation notice andindicates the resources that have been allocated. The gaming trafficflow resource allocation can be an UpdateAppFlowControlResponse messageas described in Section 6.2.8. It will be understood that the gamingtraffic flow resource allocation can be in response to the gamingtraffic flow allocation notice acknowledging the allocation of the QoSand/or bandwidth allocation.

As discussed above, some embodiments according to the invention canprovide Quality of Service and/or bandwidth allocation for differentsubscribers to the interactive game via the RAN between a plurality ofparticipants in the game. The Quality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidthallocation can be provided by determining different levels ofsubscription service for different subscribers to the interactive game.Different QoS and/or bandwidth allocations can be provided to differentgaming traffic flows associated with the different subscribers to thegame based on the different levels of subscription service of thedifferent subscribers. A higher QoS and/or amount of bandwidth may allowthe subscriber to experience more interactive gaming where latencybetween a player's action and a view that reflects action being providedto the subscriber may be perceived as normal, such as in a range that isless than about 30 milliseconds.

Many variations and modifications can be made to the embodimentsdescribed herein without substantially departing from the principles ofthe present invention. All such variations and modifications areintended to be included herein within the scope of the presentinvention, as set forth in the following claims.

1. A method of providing Quality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidthallocation for interactive gaming via a Regional/Access Network (RAN)that provides end-to-end transport between a Gaming Application ServiceProvider (GASP) and a Customer Premises Network (CPN) that includes aRouting Gateway (RG), the method comprising: determining differentlevels of subscription service for different subscribers to aninteractive game between a plurality of participants; and providingdifferent QoS and/or bandwidth allocations to different gaming trafficflows associated with the different subscribers to the interactive gamebased on the different levels of subscription service of the differentsubscribers.
 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein providingdifferent QoS and/or bandwidth allocations comprises: receiving, at theRAN from the GASP, an inquiry for the QoS and/or bandwidth allocationavailable to a subscriber to the interactive game responsive to a levelof the subscription service to the interactive game by the subscriber;and providing a profile, for the GASP, including an allocated QoS and/orbandwidth allocation for the subscriber based on the received inquiry.3. A method according to claim 2 wherein providing the profile comprisesproviding a first allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber based on a first type of information transmitted during theinteractive game.
 4. A method according to claim 4 further comprising:providing a second allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber based on a second type of information transmitted during theinteractive game.
 5. A method according to claim 2 further comprising:changing the allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber responsive to a change in the level of subscription serviceof the subscriber.
 6. A method according claim 2 wherein providing aprofile including an allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber based on the received inquiry comprises allocating at leastone assured forwarding queue to the subscriber to the interactive game.7. A method according claim 2 wherein providing a profile including anallocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for the subscriber based onthe received inquiry comprises allocating at least one assuredforwarding queue to the subscriber to the interactive game forprocessing of interactive game play information and allocating at leastone best effort queue to the subscriber for processing of auxiliaryinformation.
 8. A method according to claim 2 further comprising:providing the profile to a routing gateway associated with subscriber.9. A method according to claim 2 further comprising: providing game playinformation to/from the GASP limited by the allocated QoS and/orbandwidth allocation.
 10. A method according to claim 2 furthercomprising: establishing a port through which the interactive gamecommunicates with the subscriber, wherein the port is associated withthe subscriber profile.
 11. A method of providing Quality of Service(QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation for interactive gaming via aRegional/Access Network (RAN) that provides end-to-end transport betweena Gaming Application Service Provider (GASP) and a Customer PremisesNetwork (CPN) that includes a Routing Gateway (RG), the methodcomprising: receiving, at the RAN from the GASP, a session request toestablish a session to which a QoS and/or bandwidth allocation is madeto a subscriber to a multiplayer interactive game between a plurality ofparticipants; providing, from the RAN to the GASP, a session responseresponsive to the session request authorizing the GASP to allocate RANresources to the subscriber if the GASP is authorized to allocate RANresources; receiving, at the RAN from the GASP, a gaming flow query asto which resources are available to the GASP for allocation to thesubscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; providing, from the RANto the GASP, a gaming flow response responsive to the gaming flow queryindicating the resources that are available to the GASP for allocationto the subscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; receiving, atthe RAN from the GASP, a gaming flow allocation request that indicatesresources that the RAN is to allocate to the subscriber for themultiplayer interactive game; and providing, from the RAN to the GASP, agaming flow allocation response responsive to the gaming flow allocationrequest indicating resources allocated to the subscriber for themultiplayer interactive game.
 12. A system for providing Quality ofService (QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation for interactive gaming via aRegional/Access Network (RAN) that provides end-to-end transport betweena Gaming Application Service Provider (GASP) and a Customer PremisesNetwork (CPN) that includes a Routing Gateway (RG), the systemcomprising: means for determining different levels of subscriptionservice for different subscribers to an interactive game between aplurality of participants; and means for providing different QoS and/orbandwidth allocations to different gaming traffic flows associated withthe different subscribers to the interactive game based on the differentlevels of subscription service of the different subscribers.
 13. Asystem for providing Quality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidthallocation for interactive gaming via a Regional/Access Network (RAN)that provides end-to-end transport between a Gaming Application ServiceProvider (GASP) and a Customer Premises Network (CPN) that includes aRouting Gateway (RG), the system comprising: means for receiving, at theRAN from the GASP, a session request to establish a session to which aQoS and/or bandwidth allocation is made to a subscriber to a multiplayerinteractive game between a plurality of participants; means forproviding, from the RAN to the GASP, a session response responsive tothe session request authorizing the GASP to allocate RAN resources tothe subscriber if the GASP is authorized to allocate RAN resources;means for receiving, at the RAN from the GASP, an gaming flow query asto which resources are available to the GASP for allocation to thesubscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; means for providing,from the RAN to the GASP, a gaming flow response responsive to thegaming flow query indicating the resources that are available to theGASP for allocation to the subscriber for the multiplayer interactivegame; means for receiving, at the RAN from the GASP, a gaming flowallocation request that indicates resources that the RAN is to allocateto the subscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; and means forproviding, from the RAN to the GASP, a gaming flow allocation responseresponsive to the gaming flow allocation request indicating resourcesallocated to the subscriber for the multiplayer interactive game.
 14. Acomputer program product for providing Quality of Service (QoS) and/orbandwidth allocation for interactive gaming via a Regional/AccessNetwork (RAN) that provides end-to-end transport between a GamingApplication Service Provider (GASP) and a Customer Premises Network(CPN) that includes a Routing Gateway (RG), comprising a computerreadable medium having computer readable program code embodied therein,the computer readable program product comprising: computer readableprogram code configured to determine different levels of subscriptionservice for different subscribers to a multiplayer interactive gamebetween a plurality of participants; and computer readable program codeconfigured to provide different QoS and/or bandwidth allocations todifferent gaming traffic flows associated with the different subscribersto the multiplayer interactive game based on the different levels ofsubscription service of the different subscribers.
 15. A computerprogram product according to claim 14 wherein the computer readableprogram code configured to provide different QoS and/or bandwidthallocations comprises: computer readable program code configured toreceive, at the RAN from the GASP, an inquiry for the QoS and/orbandwidth allocation available to a subscriber to the multiplayerinteractive game responsive to a level of the subscription service tothe multiplayer interactive game by the subscriber; and computerreadable program code configured to provide a profile, for the GASP,including an allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber based on the received inquiry.
 16. A computer program productaccording to claim 14 wherein the computer readable program codeconfigured to provide the profile comprises computer readable programcode configured to provide a first allocated QoS and/or bandwidthallocation for the subscriber based on a first type of informationtransmitted during the multiplayer interactive game.
 17. A computerprogram product according to claim 16 further comprising: computerreadable program code configured to provide a second allocated QoSand/or bandwidth allocation for the subscriber based on a second type ofinformation transmitted during the multiplayer interactive game.
 18. Acomputer program product according to claim 14 further comprising:computer readable program code configured to change the allocated QoSand/or bandwidth allocation for the subscriber responsive to a change inthe level of subscription service of the subscriber.
 19. A computerprogram product according claim 14 wherein the computer readable programcode configured to provide a profile including an allocated QoS and/orbandwidth allocation for the subscriber based on the received inquirycomprises computer readable program code configured to allocate at leastone assured forwarding queue to the subscriber to the multiplayerinteractive game.
 20. A computer program product according claim 14wherein the computer readable program code configured to provide aprofile including an allocated QoS and/or bandwidth allocation for thesubscriber based on the received inquiry comprises computer readableprogram code configured to allocate at least one assured forwardingqueue to the subscriber to the multiplayer interactive game forprocessing of interactive game play information and allocating at leastone best effort queue to the subscriber for processing of auxiliaryinformation.
 21. A computer program product according to claim 14further comprising: computer readable program code configured to providethe profile to a routing gateway associated with subscriber.
 22. Acomputer program product according to claim 14 further comprising:computer readable program code configured to provide game playinformation to/from the GASP limited by the allocated QoS and/orbandwidth allocation.
 23. A computer program product according to claim14 further comprising: computer readable program code configured toestablish a port through which the multiplayer interactive gamecommunicates with the subscriber, wherein the port is associated withthe subscriber profile.
 24. A computer program product of providingQuality of Service (QoS) and/or bandwidth allocation for interactivegaming via a Regional/Access Network (RAN) that provides end-to-endtransport between a Gaming Application Service Provider (GASP) and aCustomer Premises Network (CPN) that includes a Routing Gateway (RG),the computer program product comprising: computer readable program codeconfigured to receive, at the RAN from the GASP, a session request toestablish a session to which a QoS and/or bandwidth allocation is madeto a subscriber to a multiplayer interactive game between a plurality ofparticipants; computer readable program code configured to provide, fromthe RAN to the GASP, a session response responsive to the sessionrequest authorizing the GASP to allocate RAN resources to the subscriberif the GASP is authorized to allocate RAN resources; computer readableprogram code configured to receive, at the RAN from the GASP, an gamingflow query as to which resources are available to the GASP forallocation to the subscriber for the multiplayer interactive game;computer readable program code configured to provide, from the RAN tothe GASP, a gaming flow response responsive to the gaming flow queryindicating the resources that are available to the GASP for allocationto the subscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; computerreadable program code configured to receive, at the RAN from the GASP, agaming flow allocation request that indicates resources that the RAN isto allocate to the subscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; andcomputer readable program code configured to provide, from the RAN tothe GASP, a gaming flow allocation response responsive to the gamingflow allocation request indicating resources allocated to the subscriberfor the multiplayer interactive game.
 25. A computer program productaccording to claim 24 further comprising: computer readable program codeconfigured to provide, from the RAN to the RG, a gaming flow allocationnotice that indicates that resources have been allocated to thesubscriber for the multiplayer interactive game; and computer readableprogram code configured to receive, from the RG at the RAN, a gamingflow resource allocation responsive to the gaming flow allocation noticeindicating the resources that have been allocated.